Mediated electrochemical oxidation used for sterilization/disinfection

ABSTRACT

A medicated electrochemical oxidation process is used for sterilization/disinfection of contaminated instruments and infectious waste. Contaminated instruments and waste are introduced into an apparatus for contacting the infectious waste with an electrolyte containing the oxidized form of one or more reversible redox couples, at least one of which is produced at the anode of an electrochemical cell. The oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize the infectious waste molecules and are themselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they are reoxidized by either of the aforementioned mechanisms and the redox cycle continues until all oxidizable infectious waste species have undergone the desired degree of oxidation. The entire process takes place at temperatures between ambient and approximately 100 degree celsius. The oxidation process will be enhanced by the addition of reaction of reaction enhancements, such as: ultrasonic energy and/or ultraviolet radiation.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/350,378 filed Jan. 24, 2002 and PCT/US03/02153 filed Jan. 24, 2003.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a process and apparatus for usingmediated electrochemical oxidation (MEO) for sterilization and/ordisinfection of instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterials which includes, but is not limited to, medical waste,infectious waste, pathological waste, animal waste, and combined waste(e.g. a mixture of any of the foregoing with each other or othernon-biological waste) henceforth collectively referred to as infectiouswaste. Sterilization is the destruction of all infectious agents from anenvironment which includes, but not limited to, algae, bacteria, fungi,protozoa, virus dormant endospores, poorly characterized agents such asviroids and the agents that are associated with sporgiforms.Disinfection is the removal from an environment of microbes that maycause disease.

The following documents are added to the definition so as to furtherclarify the scope and definition of sterilization/disinfection that isconsidered by any of, but not limited to, the following statutes andregulations:

-   -   New Jersey State Statute, “Comprehensive Regulatory Medical        Waste Management Act”, P.L. 1989, c. 34 (C.13.1E-48.13).    -   New York State Environmental Conservation Law, TITLE 15,        “STORAGE, TREATMENT, DISPOSAL AND TRANSPORTATION OF REGULATED        MEDICAL WASTE”, Section 27-1501. Definitions.    -   New York State Public Health Law, TITLE XIII, “STORAGE,        TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL OF REGULATED MEDICAL WASTE”, Section        1389-aa. Definitions.    -   CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE, SECTION 117635. “Biohazardous        Waste” Title 25 Health Services, Part I.    -   Texas Department of Health, Chapter 1 Texas Board of Health,        “Definition, Treatment, and Disposition of Special Waste from        Health Care-Related Facilities, Section 1.132 Definitions.    -   40 C.F.R. 60.51 (c) PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT; Standards of        performance for new stationary sources.    -   40 C.F.R. 240.101 PROTECTION OF ENVIRONMENT; Guidelines for the        thermal processing of solid wastes (Section P only).    -   49 C.F.R. 173.134 TRANSPORTATION; Class 6, Division        6.2-Definitions, exceptions and packing group assignments.    -   33 C.F.R. 151.05 TITLE 33 □□NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS;        VESSELS CARRYING OIL, NOXIOUS LIQUID SUBSTANCES, GARBAGE,        MUNICIPAL OR COMMERCIAL WASTE, AND BALLAST WATER□; Definitions        (medical waste only).

The definition of infectious waste has been expanding in its coverage ofmaterials that must be handled in a controlled manner. The foregoinglist of State statutes and United States Federal Regulations areoverlapping but are necessary to accurately define the materials sinceno single statute or regulation covers all the materials for which thisinvention applies.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The cost of sterilization/disinfection in the U.S. is a multi-billiondollar per year industry. The capital cost of thesterilization/disinfection equipment and/or the chemicals used insterilization/disinfection is in the hundreds of millions of dollars.All institutions and businesses that generate and handle this categoryof infectious waste must provide safe effective and inexpensive disposalof the infectious waste. In recent years there has been increasingconcern over the disposal of infectious waste. The two principlemethodologies for the disposal of this infectious waste are by (a)physical methods such as steam or dry heat, UV lamps, infraredradiation, microwaves, gamma radiation and membrane filtration; and (b)chemical sterilants and disinfectants such as halogen compounds,non-halogen chemical germicides (i.e., alcohols, phenolic compounds,quaternary ammonium compounds, hydrogen peroxide, aldehydes, andethylene oxide gas).

The physical methods that involve heat and/or pressure systems have thefollowing problems: a) maintenance and quality control, b) packing iscritical to performance, c) time consuming, d) potential volatilehazardous organic emissions, and some equipment is heat sensitive. Inthe case of the use of incinerators there is the problem oftransportation and the emissions of volatile hazardous organics.

Disinfectants may be effective against bacteria but not against virusesor fungi. There are differences in effectiveness between gram-positiveand gram-negative bacteria and sometimes even between strains of thesame species. Bacterial spores are more resistant then the vegetativeform. Disinfectants have differing effects on various types of virusessuch as those with lipid coatings compared to non-enveloped,non-lipid-contained viruses. Since no one chemical sterilants ordisinfectants is effective for all sterilization or disinfectionpurposes there is a significant need for improved methods of handlinginfectious wastes.

The MEO process in this patent provides an apparatus and process thatdestroys all microbial materials on instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials at the facility that generates the infectiouswaste in an environment of ambient atmospheric pressure and attemperatures less then 100° C. The MEO process sterilizes and/ordisinfects medical and veterinary instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials so that they can be used again. In the case ofequipment that cannot stand heat or is in anyway not suitable for commonsterilization techniques such as dialyzers, the MEO process andapparatus offer a new and unique approach to sterilization and/ordisinfection.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a method and apparatus for the use of mediatedelectrochemical oxidation (MEO) for the sterilizing and/or disinfectingof contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterials which includes, but is not limited to, medical waste,infectious waste, pathological waste, animal waste, and combined waste(e.g., a mixture of any of the foregoing with each other or othernon-infectious waste) henceforth collectively referred to as infectiouswaste. Sterilization is the destruction of all forms of microbial lifefrom an environment which includes, but not limited to, algae, bacteria,fungi, protozoa, virus dormant endospores, poorly characterized agentssuch as viroids and the agents that are associated with spongiforms.Disinfection is the removal from an environment of specific pathogenicmicroorganisms.

The MEO process is applied to perform sterilization and/or disinfectionof instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials. Themicroorganisms (infectious waste) contaminate the instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials when they are used toperform functions in connection with providing medical care, veterinarycare, processing food, and agricultural activities such as raisinganimals and plants. The MEO process sterilizes and/or disinfects medicaland veterinary instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterials so that they can be used again. In the case of equipment thatcannot stand heat or is in anyway not suitable for common sterilizationtechniques such as dialyzers, the MEO process and apparatus offer a newand unique approach to sterilization and/or disinfection.

The mediated electrochemical oxidation process involves an electrolytecontaining one or more redox couples, wherein the oxidized form of atleast one redox couple is produced by anodic oxidation at the anode ofan electrochemical cell. The oxidized forms of any other redox couplespresent are produced either by similar anodic oxidation or reaction withthe oxidized form of other redox couples present capable of affectingthe required redox reaction. The oxidized species of the redox couplesoxidize the infectious waste molecules and are themselves converted totheir reduced form, whereupon they are reoxidized by either of theaforementioned mechanisms and the redox cycle continues until alloxidizable infectious waste species, including intermediate reactionproducts, have undergone the desired degree of oxidation. The MEOprocess continues until the degree of sterilization/disinfection desiredis accomplished. The redox species ions are thus seen to “mediate” thetransfer of electrons from the infectious material to the anode, (i.e.,oxidation of the all infectious waste).

A membrane in the electrochemical cell separates the anolyte andcatholyte, thereby preventing parasitic reduction of the oxidizingspecies at the cathode. The preferred MEO process uses the mediatorspecies described in Table I (simple anions redox couple mediators); theType I isopolyanions (IPA) formed by Mo, W, V, Nb, and Ta, and mixturesthere of; the Type I heteropolyanions (HPA) formed by incorporation intothe aforementioned isopolyanions of any of the elements listed in TableII (heteroatoms) either singly or in combinations there of; any typeheteropolyanion containing at least one heteropolyatom (i.e. element)contained in both Table I and Table II; or combinations of mediatorspecies from any or all of these generic groups.

Simple Anion Redox Couple Mediators

Table I shows the simple anion redox couple mediators used in thepreferred MEO process wherein “species” defines the specific ions foreach chemical element that have applicability to the MEO process aseither the reduced (e.g., Fe⁺³) or oxidizer (e.g., FeO₄ ⁻²) form of themediator characteristic element (e.g., Fe), and the “specific redoxcouple” defines the specific associations of the reduced and oxidizedforms of these species (e.g., Fe⁺²/FeO₄ ⁻²) that are claimed for the MEOprocess. Species soluble in the anolyte are shown in Table I in normalprint while those that are insoluble are shown in bold underlined print.The characteristics of the MEO Process claimed in this patent arespecified in the following paragraphs.

The anolyte contains one or more redox couples which in their oxidizedform consist of either single multivalent element anions (e.g., Ag⁺²,Ce⁺⁴, Co⁺³, Pb⁺⁴, etc.), insoluble oxides of multivalent elements (e.g.,PbO₂, CeO₂, PrO₂, etc.), or simple oxoanions (also called oxyanions) ofmultivalent elements (e.g., FeO₄ ⁻², NiO₄ ⁻², BiO₃ ⁻, etc.) called themediator species. The nonoxygen multivalent element component of themediator is called the characteristic element of the mediator species.We have chosen to group the simple oxoanions with the simple anion redoxcouple mediators rather than with the complex (i.e., polyoxometallate(POM)) anion redox couple mediators discussed in the next section andrefer to them collectively as simple anion redox couple mediators.

In one embodiment of this process both the oxidized and reduced forms ofthe redox couple are soluble in the anolyte. The reduced form of thecouple is anodically oxidized to the oxidized form at the cell anode(s)whereupon it oxidizes molecules of infectious waste either dissolved inor located on infectious waste particle surfaces wetted by the anolyte,with the concomitant reduction of the oxidizing agent to its reducedform, whereupon the MEO process begins again with the reoxidation ofthis species at the cell anode(s). If other less powerful redox couplesof this type (i.e., reduced and oxidized forms soluble in anolyte) arepresent, they too may undergo direct anodic oxidation or the anodicallyoxidized more powerful oxidizing agent may oxidize them rather that ainfectious waste molecule. The weaker redox couple(s) is selected suchthat their oxidation potential is sufficient to affect the desiredreaction with the infectious waste molecules. The oxidized species ofall the redox couples oxidize the infectious waste materials and arethemselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they arereoxidized by either of the aforementioned mechanisms and the redoxcycle continues until all oxidizable infectious waste species, includingintermediate reaction products, have undergone the desired degree ofoxidation.

The preferred mode for the MEO process as described in the precedingsection is for the redox couple species to be soluble in the anolyte inboth the oxidized and reduced forms; however this is not the only modeof operation claimed herein. If the reduced form of the redox couple issoluble in the anolyte (e.g., Pb⁺²) but the oxidized form is not (e.g.,PbO₂), the following processes are operative. The insoluble oxidizingagent is produced either as a surface layer on the anode by anodicoxidation, or throughout the bulk of the anolyte by reacting with theoxidized form of other redox couples present capable of affecting therequired redox reaction, at least one of which is formed by anodicoxidation. The oxidizable infectious waste is either soluble in theanolyte or dispersed therein as a fine particle size, (e.g., emulsion,colloid, etc.) thereby affecting intimate contact with the surface ofthe insoluble oxidizing agent (e.g., PbO₂) particles. Upon reaction ofthe infectious waste with the oxidizing agent particles, the infectiouswaste is oxidized and the insoluble oxidizing agent molecules on theanolyte wetted surfaces of the oxidizing agent particles reacting withthe infectious waste are reduced to their soluble form and are returnedto the bulk anolyte, available for continuing the MEO process by beingreoxidized.

In another variant of the MEO process if the reduced form of the redoxcouple is insoluble in the anolyte (e.g., TiO₂) but the oxidized form issoluble (e.g., TiO₂ ⁺²), the following processes are operative. Thesoluble (i.e., oxidized) form of the redox couple is produced by thereaction of the insoluble (i.e., reduced form) redox couple molecules onthe anolyte wetted surfaces of the oxidizing agent particles with thesoluble oxidized form of other redox couples present capable ofaffecting the required redox reaction, at least one of which is formedby anodic oxidation and soluble in the anolyte in both the reduced andoxidized forms. The soluble oxidized species so formed are released intothe anolyte whereupon they oxidize infectious waste molecules in themanner previously described and are themselves converted to theinsoluble form of the redox couple, thereupon returning to the startingpoint of the redox MEO cycle.

The electrolytes used in this claim are from a family of acids, alkali,and neutral salt aqueous solutions (e.g. sulfuric acid, potassiumhydroxide, sodium sulfate aqueous solutions etc.).

A given redox couple or mixture of redox couples (i.e. mediator species)will be used with different electrolytes.

The electrolyte composition is selected based on demonstrated adequatesolubility of the compound containing at least one of the mediatorspecies present in the reduced form (e.g., sulfuric acid will be usedwith ferric sulfate, etc.).

The concentration of the mediator species containing compounds in theanolyte will range from 0.0005 molar (M) up to the saturation point.

The concentration of electrolyte in the anolyte will be governed by itseffect upon the solubility of the mediator species containing compoundsand by the conductivity of the anolyte solution desired in theelectrochemical cell for the given mediator species being used.

The temperature over which the electrochemical cell will be operatedwill range from approximately 0° C. to slightly below the boiling pointof the electrolytic solution.

The MEO process is operating at atmospheric pressure.

The mediator species are differentiated on the basis of whether they arecapable of reacting with the electrolyte to produce free radicals (e.g.,•O₂H (perhydroxyl), •OH (hydroxyl), •SO₄ (sulfate), •NO₃ (nitrate),etc.). Such mediator species are classified herein as “super oxidizers”(SO) and typically exhibit oxidation potentials at least equal to thatof the Ce⁺³/Ce⁺⁴ redox couple (i.e., 1.7 volts).

The electrical potential between the electrodes in the electrochemicalcell is based upon the oxidation potential of the most reactive redoxcouple present in the anolyte and serving as a mediator species, and theohmic losses within the cell. Within the current density range ofinterest the electrical potential will be approximately 2.5 to 3.0volts.

Complex Anion Redox Couple Mediators

The preferred characteristic of the oxidizing species in the MEO processis that it be soluble in the aqueous anolyte in both the oxidized andreduced states. The majorities of metal oxides and oxoanion (oxyanion)salts are insoluble, or have poorly defined or limited solutionchemistry. The early transition elements, however, are capable ofspontaneously forming a class of discrete polymeric structures calledPOMs (POMs) which are highly soluble in aqueous solutions over a wide pHrange. The polymerization of simple tetrahedral oxoanions of interestherein involves an expansion of the metal, M, coordination number to 6,and the edge and corner linkage of MO₆ octahedra. Chromium is limited toa coordination number of 4, restricting the POMs based on CrO₄tetrahedra to the dichromate ion [Cr₂O₇]⁻² which is included in Table I.Based upon their chemical composition POMs are divided into the twosubclasses isopolyanions (IPAs) and heteropolyanions (HPAs), as shown bythe following general formulas:Isopolyanions (IPAs)−[M_(m)O_(y)]^(p−)and,Heteropolyanions (HPAs)−[X_(x)M_(m)O_(y)]^(q−)(m>x)where the addenda atom, M, is usually Molybdenum (Mo) or Tungsten (W),and less frequently Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), or Tantalum (Ta), ormixtures of these elements in their highest (d⁰) oxidation state. Theelements that can function as addenda atoms in IPAs and HPAs appear tobe limited to those with both a favorable combination of ionic radiusand charge, and the ability to form dn-pn M—O bonds. However, theheteroatom, X, have no such limitations and can be any of the elementslisted in Table II.

There is a vast chemistry of POMs that involves the oxidation/reductionof the addenda atoms and those heteroatoms listed in Table II, whichexhibit multiple oxidation states. The partial reduction of the addenda,M, atoms in some POMs strictures (i.e., both IPAs and HPAs) producesintensely colored species, generically referred to as “heteropolyblues”. Based on structural differences, POMs can be divided into twogroups, Type I and Type II. Type I POMs consist of MO₆ octahedra eachhaving one terminal oxo oxygen atom while Type II have 2 terminal oxooxygen atoms. Type II POMs can only accommodate addenda atoms with d⁰electronic configurations, whereas Type I; e.g., Keggin (XM₁₂O₄₀),Dawson (X₂M₁₈O₆₂), hexametalate (M₆O₁₉), decatungstate (W₁₀O₃₂), etc.,can accommodate addenda atoms with d⁰, d¹, and d² electronicconfigurations. Therefore, while Type I structures can easily undergoreversible redox reactions, structural limitations preclude this abilityin Type II structures. Oxidizing species applicable for the MEO processare therefore Type I POMs (i.e., IPAs and HPAs) where the addenda, M,atoms are W, Mo, V, Nb, Ta, or combinations thereof.

The high negative charges of polyanions often stabilize heteroatoms inunusually high oxidation states, thereby creating a second category ofMEO oxidizers in addition to the aforementioned Type I POMs. Any Type Ior Type II HPA containing any of the heteroatom elements, X, listed inTable II, that also are listed in Table I as simple anion redox couplemediators, can also function as an oxidizing species in the MEO process.

The anolyte contains one or more complex anion redox couples, eachconsisting of either the afore mentioned Type I POMs containing W, Mo,V, Nb, Ta or combinations there of as the addenda atoms, or HPAs havingas heteroatoms (X) any elements contained in both Tables I and II, andwhich are soluble in the electrolyte (e.g. sulfuric acid, etc.).

The electrolytes used in this claim are from a family of acids, alkali,and neutral salt aqueous solutions (e.g. sulfuric acid, potassiumhydroxide, sodium sulfate aqueous solutions, etc.).

A given POM redox couple or mixture of POM redox couples (i.e., mediatorspecies) will be used with different electrolytes.

The electrolyte composition is selected based on demonstrating adequatesolubility of at least one of the compounds containing the POM mediatorspecies in the reduced form and being part of a redox couple ofsufficient oxidation potential to affect oxidation of the other mediatorspecies present.

The concentration of the POM mediator species containing compounds inthe anolyte will range from 0.0005M up to the saturation point. Theconcentration of electrolyte in the anolyte will be governed by itseffect upon the solubility of the POM mediator species containingcompounds and by the conductivity of the anolyte solution desired in theelectrochemical cell for the given POM mediator species being used toallow the desired cell current at the desired cell voltage.

The temperature over which the electrochemical cell will be operatedwill range from approximately 0° C. to just below the boiling point ofthe electrolytic solution.

The MEO process is operating at atmospheric pressure.

The POM mediator species are differentiated on the basis of whether theyare capable of reacting with the electrolyte to produce free radicals(e.g., •O₂H, •OH , •SO₄, •NO₃) Such mediator species are classifiedherein as “super oxidizers” (SO) and typically exhibit oxidationpotentials at least equal to that of the Ce⁺³/Ce⁺⁴ redox couple (i.e.,1.7 volts).

The electrical potential between the electrodes in the electrochemicalcell is based on the oxidation potential of the most reactive POM redoxcouple present in the anolyte and serving as a mediator species, and theohmic losses within the cell. Within the current density range ofinterest the electrical potential will be approximately 2.5 to 3.0volts.

Mixed Simple and Complex Anion Redox Couple Mediators

The preferred MEO process for a combination of simple and complex anionredox couple mediators may be mixed together to form the system anolyte.The characteristics of the resulting MEO process is similar to theprevious discussions.

The use of multiple oxidizer species in the MEO process has thefollowing potential advantages:

a) The overall infectious waste destruction rate will be increased ifthe reaction kinetics of anodically oxidizing mediator “A”, oxidizingmediator “B” and oxidized mediator “B” oxidizing the infectious waste issufficiently rapid such that the combined speed of the three stepreaction train is faster than the two step reaction trains of anodicallyoxidizing mediator “A” or “B”, and the oxidized mediators “A” or “B”oxidizing the infectious waste, respectively.

b) If the cost of mediator “B” is sufficiently less than that ofmediator “A”, the used of the above three step reaction train willresult in lowering the cost of infectious waste destruction due to thereduced cost associated with the smaller required inventory and processlosses of the more expensive mediator “A”. An example of this the use ofa silver (II)-peroxysulfate mediator system to reduce the costassociated with silver and overcome the slow oxidation kinetics ofperoxysulfate only MEO process.

c) The MEO process is “desensitized” to changes in the types ofmolecular bonds present in the infectious waste as the use of multiplemediators, each selectively attacking different type of chemical bonds,results in a highly “nonselective” oxidizing system.

Anolyte Additional Features

In one preferred embodiment of the MEO process in this invention, thereare one or more simple anion redox couple mediators in the anolyteaqueous solution. In a preferred embodiment of the MEO process, thereare one or more complex anion (i.e., POMs) redox couple mediators in theanolyte aqueous solution. In another preferred embodiment of the MEOprocess, there are one or more simple anion redox couples and one ormore complex anion redox couples in the anolyte aqueous solution.

The MEO process of the present invention uses any oxidizer specieslisted in Table I that are found in situ in the infectious waste to bedestroyed; For example, when the infectious waste also contains leadcompounds that become a source of Pb⁺² ions under the MEO processconditions within the anolyte, the infectious waste-anolyte mixture willbe circulated through an electrochemical cell. Where the oxidized formof the reversible lead redox couple will be formed either by anodicoxidation within the electrochemical cell or alternately by reactingwith the oxidized form of a more powerful redox couple, if present inthe anolyte and the latter being anodically oxidized in theelectrochemical cell. The lead thus functions exactly as a simple anionredox couple species thereby destroying the organic waste componentleaving only the lead to be disposed of. Adding one or more of any ofthe anion redox couple mediators described in this patent will furtherenhance the MEO process described above.

In the MEO process of the invention, anion redox couple mediators in theanolyte part of an aqueous electrolyte solution will use an acid,neutral or alkaline solution depending on the temperature and solubilityof the specific mediator(s). The anion oxidizers used in the basic MEOprocess preferably attack specific organic molecules. Hydroxyl freeradicals preferentially attack organic molecules containing aromaticrings and unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds Oxidation products such as thehighly undesirable aromatic compounds chlorophenol ortetrachlorodibenzodioxin (dioxin) upon formation would thus bepreferentially attacked by hydroxyl free radicals, preventing theaccumulation of any meaningful amounts of these compounds. Even freeradicals with lower oxidation potentials than the hydroxyl free radicalpreferentially attack carbon-halogen bonds such as those in carbontetrachloride and polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs).

Some redox couples having an oxidation potential at least equal to thatof the Ce⁺³/Ce⁺⁴ redox couple (i.e., 1.7 volts), and sometimes requiringheating to above about 50° C. (i.e., but less then the boiling point ofthe electrolyte) can initiate a second oxidation process wherein themediator ions in their oxidized form interact with the aqueous anolyte,creating secondary oxidizer free radicals (e.g., •O₂H, •OH, •SO₄, •NO₃,etc.) or hydrogen peroxide. Such mediator species in this invention areclassified herein as “super oxidizers” (SO) to distinguish them from the“basic oxidizers” incapable of initiating this second oxidation process.

The oxidizer species addressed in this patent (i.e., characteristicelements having atomic number below 90) are described in Table I (simpleanions redox couple mediators): Type I IPAs formed by Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta,or mixtures there of as addenda atoms; Type I HPAs formed byincorporation into the aforementioned IPAs if any of the elements listedin Table II (heteroatoms) either singly or in combinations thereof; orany HPA containing at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element)contained in both Table I and Table II; or mediator species from any orall of these generic groups.

Each oxidizer anion element has normal valence states (NVS) (i.e.,reduced form of redox couple) and higher valence states (HVS) (i.e.,oxidized form of redox couple) created by stripping electrons off NVSspecies when they pass through and electrochemical cell. The MEO processof the present invention uses a broad spectrum of anion oxidizers; theseanion oxidizers used in the basic MEO process may be interchanged in thepreferred embodiment without changing the equipment.

In preferred embodiments of the MEO process, the basic MEO process ismodified by the introduction of additives such as tellurate or periodateions which serve to overcome the short lifetime of the oxidized form ofsome redox couples (e.g., Cu⁺³) in the anolyte via the formation of morestable complexes (e.g., [Cu(IO₆)₂]⁻⁷, [Cu(HteO₆)₂]⁻⁷) The tellurate andperiodate ions can also participate directly in the MEO process as theyare the oxidized forms of simple anion redox couple mediators (see TableI) and will participate in the oxidation of infectious waste in the samemanner as previously described for this class of oxidizing agents.

Alkaline Electrolytes

In one preferred embodiment, a cost reduction will be achieved in thebasic MEO process by using an alkaline electrolyte, such as but notlimited to aqueous solutions of NaOH or KOH with mediator specieswherein the reduced form of said mediator redox couple displayssufficient solubility in said electrolyte to allow the desired oxidationof the infectious waste to proceed at a practical rate. The oxidationpotential of redox reactions producing hydrogen ions (i.e., bothmediator species and infectious waste molecules reactions) are inverselyproportional to the electrolyte pH, thus with the proper selection of aredox couple mediator, it is possible, by increasing the electrolyte pH,to minimize the electric potential required to affect the desiredoxidation process, thereby reducing the electric power consumed per unitmass of infectious waste destroyed.

When an alkaline anolyte (e.g., NaOH, KOH, etc.) is used, benefits arederived from the saponification (i.e., base promoted ester hydrolysis)of fatty acids to form water soluble alkali metal salts of the fattyacids (i.e., soaps) and glycerin, a process similar to the production ofsoap from animal fat by introducing it into a hot aqueous lye solution.

In this invention, when an alkaline anolyte is used, the CO₂ resultingfrom oxidation of the infectious waste reacts with the anolyte to formalkali metal bicarbonates/carbonates. The bicarbonate/carbonate ionscirculate within the anolyte where they are reversibly oxidized topercarbonate ions either by anodic oxidation within the electrochemicalcell or alternately by reacting with the oxidized form of a morepowerful redox couple mediator, when present in the anolyte. Thecarbonate thus functions exactly as a simple anion redox couplemediator, thereby producing an oxidizing species from the infectiouswaste oxidation products that it is capable of destroying additionalinfectious waste.

Additional MEO Electrolyte Features

In one preferred embodiment of this invention, the catholyte and anolyteare discrete entities separated by a membrane, thus they are notconstrained to share any common properties such as electrolyteconcentration, composition, or pH (i.e., acid, alkali, or neutral). Theprocess operates over the temperature range from approximately 0° C. toslightly below the boiling point of the electrolyte used during thedestruction of the infectious waste.

MEO Process Augmented by Ultraviolet/Ultrasonic Energy

Decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide into free hydroxyl radicals iswell known to be promoted by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. Thedestruction rate of infectious waste obtained using the MEO process inthis invention, will, therefore, be increased by UV irradiation of thereaction chamber anolyte to promote formation of additional hydroxylfree radicals. In a preferred embodiment, UV radiation is introducedinto the anolyte chamber using a UV source either internal to oradjacent to the anolyte chamber. The UV irradiation decomposes hydrogenperoxide, which is produced by secondary oxidizers generated by theoxidized form of the mediator redox couple, into hydroxyl free radical.The result is an increase in the efficiency of the MEO process since theenergy expended in hydrogen peroxide generation is recovered through theoxidation of infectious materials in the anolyte chamber.

Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, ultrasonic energy will beapplied into the anolyte chamber to rupture the cell membranes andaffect dispersal within the anolyte of the infectious materials. Theultrasonic energy is absorbed in the cell wall and the local temperaturein the immediate vicinity of the cell wall is raised to above severalthousand degrees, resulting in cell wall failure. This substantiallyincreases the effectiveness of oxidation by MEO oxidizer species as wellas the overall efficiency of the MEO process. In another embodiment,ultrasonic energy is introduced into the anolyte chamber. Implosion ofthe microscopic bubbles formed by the rapidly oscillating pressure wavesemanating from the sonic horn generate shock waves capable of producingextremely short lived and localized conditions of 4800° C. and 1000atmospheres pressure within the anolyte. Under these conditions watermolecules decompose into hydrogen atoms and hydroxyl radicals. Uponquenching of the localized thermal spike, the hydroxyl radicals willundergo the aforementioned reactions with the infectious waste orcombine with each other to form another hydrogen peroxide which willthen itself oxidize additional infectious waste.

In another preferred embodiment, the destruction rate of non anolytesoluble infectious waste is enhanced by affecting a reduction in thedimensions of the individual second (i.e., infectious waste) phaseentities present in the anolyte, thereby increasing the total infectiouswaste surface area wetted by the anolyte and therefore the amount ofinfectious waste oxidized per unit time. Immiscible liquids may bedispersed on an extremely fine scale within the aqueous anolyte by theintroduction of suitable surfactants or emulsifying agents. Vigorousmechanical mixing such as with a colloid mill or the microscopic scalemixing affected by the aforementioned ultrasonic energy inducedmicroscopic bubble implosion could also be used to affect the desiredreduction in size of the individual second phase infectious wastevolumes dispersed in the anolyte. The vast majority of tissue basedinfectious waste will be converted from a semi-rigid solid into a liquidphase, thus becoming treatable as above, using a variety of celldisruption methodologies. Examples of these methods are mechanicalshearing using various rotor-stator homogenizers and ultrasonic devices(i.e., sonicators) where the aforementioned implosion generated shockwave, augmented by the 4800° C. temperature spike, shear the cell walls.Distributing the cell protoplasm throughout the anolyte produces animmediate reduction in the mass and volume of actual infectious wastesas about 67 percent of protoplasm is ordinary water, which simplybecomes part of the aqueous anolyte, requiring no further treatment. Ifthe amount of water released directly from the infectious waste and/orformed as a reaction product from the oxidation of hydrogenous wastedilutes the anolyte to an unacceptable level, the anolyte can easily bereconstituted by simply raising the temperature and/or lowering thepressure in an optional evaporation chamber to affect removal of therequired amount of water. The soluble constituents of the protoplasm arerapidly dispersed throughout the anolyte on a molecular scale while theinsoluble constituents will be dispersed throughout the anolyte as anextremely fine second phase using any of the aforementioned dispersalmethodologies, thereby vastly increasing the infectious waste anolyteinterfacial contact area beyond that possible with an intact cellconfiguration and thus the rate at which the infectious waste isdestroyed and the MEO efficiency.

MEO Process Augmented with Free Radicals

The principals of the oxidation process used in this invention in whicha free radical (e.g., O₂H, OH, SO₄, NO₃,) will cleave and oxidizeorganic compounds resulting in the formation of successively smallerchained hydrocarbon compounds. The intermediate compounds formed areeasily oxidized to carbon dioxide and water during sequential reactions.

Inorganic radicals will be generated in aqueous solutions variants ofthe MEO process in this invention. Radicals have been derived fromcarbonate, azide, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, phosphite, sulphite,sulphate, selenite, thiocyanate, chloride, bromide, iodide and formateions. Organic free radicals, such as sulfhydryl, will be generated usingthe basic MEO process. When the MEO process in this invention is appliedto infectious materials they break down the materials into organiccompounds that are attacked by the aforementioned inorganic freeradicals. The inorganic free radicals produce organic free radicals,which contribute to the oxidation process and increase the efficiency ofthe MEO process.

MEO Process for Sharps

A preferred embodiment of the MEO process used in this inventiongenerates the perbromate ion as the oxidizing mediator species will beused to destroy stainless steel products such as sharps, which includebut are not limited to syringe needles, scalpels, and sutures.

SUMMARY

These and further and other objects and features of the invention areapparent in the disclosure, which includes the above and ongoing writtenspecification, with the claims and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A MEO Apparatus Diagram is a schematic representation of a systemfor sterilizing and disinfecting instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials by destroying infectious waste materials. FIG.1A is a representation of a general embodiment of the present invention(with the understanding that not all of the components shown thereinmust necessarily be employed in all situations).

FIG. 1B Anolyte Reaction Chamber for Sterilization is a schematicrepresentation of the anolyte reaction chamber used for sterilization ofinfectious waste contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials. The system depicted in this figure is similarin design to a laboratory glassware washer where the fluid in the washis the anolyte.

FIG. 1C Anolyte Reaction Chamber for Disinfection is a schematicrepresentation of the anolyte reaction chamber used to disinfectinfectious waste contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials.

FIG. 1D Remote Anolyte Reaction Chamber (Sterilization) is a schematicrepresentation of the anolyte reaction chamber used for separating theanolyte reaction chamber from the basic MEO apparatus. Thisconfiguration allows the chamber to be a part of a primary room, such asan operatorium, laboratory or similar use, minimizing the exposure ofthe operating technician to the activities in the primary room.

FIG. 1E Anolyte Reaction Chamber Exterior is a schematic representationof a container serving the role of the anolyte reaction chamber that isnot a part of the MEO apparatus. Typical of the exterior chamber is adialysis system used to treat body fluids from patients suffering fromkidney problems. The dialysis system is connected to the patient andcirculates the patient's blood through the system to clean out bodyproducts normally removed by the kidneys. The internal tubing of thedialysis system becomes contaminated with the patient's body fluid. TheMEO process thoroughly cleans and sterilizes all the contaminationinternal to the dialysis system between uses.

FIG. 2 MEO System Model 5.b is a schematic representation of a typicalpreferred embodiment. The Model 5.b uses the anolyte reaction chamber 5a (FIG. 1B) in the MEO apparatus depicted in FIG. 1A. This model is usedfor the sterilization of infectious waste contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials.

FIG. 3 MEO Controller is a schematic representation of the MEOelectrical and electronic systems. FIG. 3 is a representation of ageneral embodiment of a controller for the present invention (with theunderstanding that not all of the components shown therein mustnecessarily be employed in all situations). FIG. 3 is used to illustratethe functions of a controller by using the anolyte reaction chamber inFIG. 1B and the overall MEO system in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 4 MEO Operating Process is a schematic representation of thegeneralized steps of the process used in the MEO apparatus (with theunderstanding that not all of the components shown therein mustnecessarily be employed in a;; situations). FIG. 4 is used to illustratethe operating process by using the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a in FIG.1B and the overall MEO system in FIG. 1A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

According to this present patent, the Mediated Electrochemical Oxidation(MEO) process and apparatus may oxidize infectious agents by theinteraction of the oxidized species of the redox couple with the agents.The infectious agents give up at least one electron to the oxidizedspecies of the redox couple resulting in the inactivation of themicroorganism. The MEO process continues oxidizing the infectiousmaterials on instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and materialsuntil they are decomposed into carbon dioxide and water. The MEO processwill accomplish sterilization on instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials by operating the apparatus until no biologicalmaterial remain. When disinfection is the desired result, the MEOprocess may be operated a predetermined time to render the pathogenicmicroorganisms inactivated on all of the instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials.

MEO Chemistry

Mediated Electrochemical Oxidation (MEO) process chemistry described inthis patent uses oxidizer species (i.e., characteristic elements havingatomic number below 90) as described in Table I (simple anions redoxcouple mediators); Type I IPAs formed by Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta, or mixturesthere of as addenda atoms; Type I HPAs formed by incorporation into theaforementioned IPAs of any of the elements listed in Table II(heteroatoms) either singly or in combination there of; or any HPAcontaining at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element) contained inboth Table I and Table II; or combinations of mediator species from anyor all of these generic groups. Since the anolyte and catholyte arecompletely separated entities, it is not necessary for both systems tocontain the same electrolyte. Each electrolyte may, independent of theother, consist of an aqueous solution of acids, typically but notlimited to nitric, sulfuric, of phosphoric; alkali, typically but notlimited to sodium or potassium hydroxide; or neutral salt typically butnot limited to sodium or potassium salts of the aforementioned strongmineral acids.

The MEO Apparatus is unique in that it accommodates the numerous choicesof mediator ions and electrolytes by simply draining, flushing, andrefilling the system with the mediator/electrolyte system of choice.

Because of redundancy and similarity in the description of the variousmediator ions, only the iron and nitric acid combination is discussed indetail. However, it is to be understood that the following discussion ofthe ferric/ferrate, (Fe⁺³)/(FeO₄ ⁻²) redox couple reaction in nitricacid (HNO₃) also applies to all the aforementioned oxidizer species andelectrolytes described at the beginning of this section. Furthermore,the following discussions of the interaction of ferrate ions withaqueous electrolytes to produce the aforementioned free radicals alsoapplies to all aforementioned mediators having an oxidation potentialsufficient to be classified superoxidizers, typically at least equal tothat of the Ce⁺³/Ce⁺⁴ redox couple (i.e., 1.7 volts).

FIG. 1A shows a MEO Apparatus in a schematic representation fordestroying infectious waste on instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials. At the anode of the electrochemical cell 25Fe(III) ions (Fe⁺³, ferric) are oxidized to Fe(VI) ions (FeO₄ ⁻²,ferrate),Fe⁺³+4H₂O→FeO⁻²+8H⁺+3e ⁻

If the anolyte temperature is sufficiently high, typically above 50° C.,the Fe(VI) species may undergo a redox reaction with the water in theaqueous anolyte. The oxidation of water proceeds by a sequence ofreactions producing a variety of intermediate reaction products, some ofwhich react with each other. A few of these intermediate reactionproducts are highly reactive free radicals including, but not limited tothe hydroxyl (•OH) and hydrogen peroxy or perhydroxyl (•HO₂) radicals.Additionally, the mediated oxidizer species ions may interact withanions present in the acid or neutral salt electrolyte (e.g., NO₃ ⁻, SO₄⁻², or PO₄ ⁻³, etc.) to produce free radicals typified by, but notlimited to •NO₃, or the anions may undergo direct oxidation at the anodeof the cell. The population of hydroxyl free radicals may be increasedby ultraviolet irradiation of the anolyte (see ultraviolet source 11) inthe reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c,d) to cleave the hydrogen peroxidemolecules, intermediate reaction products, into two such radicals. Freeradical populations will also be increased by ultrasonic vibration (seeultrasonic source 9) induced by the aforementioned implosion generatedshock wave, augmented by the 4800° C. temperature spike and 1000atmospheres pressure.

These secondary oxidation species are capable of oxidizing organicmaterials and thus act in consort with Fe(VI) ions to oxidize theinfectious waste on the instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterials.

The oxidizers react with the infectious waste to produce CO₂ and water.These processes occur in the anolyte on the anode side of the system inthe reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c,d). Addition of ferric ions tonon-iron-based MEO systems are also proposed as this has the potentialfor increasing the overall rate of infectious waste oxidation comparedto the non-iron MEO system alone. (Again it is to be understood thisdiscussion of the ferric/ferrate redox couple also applies to all theaforementioned oxidizer species described at the beginning of thissection.) If the two step process of electrochemically forming a FeO₄ ⁻²ion and the FeO₄ ⁻² ion oxidizing the mediator ion to its higher valanceoccurs faster than the direct electrochemical oxidation of the mediatorion itself, then there is an overall increase in the rate of infectiouswaste destruction.

Membrane 27 separates the anode and the cathode chambers in theelectrochemical cell 25. Hydrogen ions (H⁺) or hydronium ions (H₃O⁺)travel through the membrane 27 due to the electrical potential from thedc power supply 29 applied between the anode(s) and cathodes(s) 26 and28, respectively. In the catholyte the nitric acid is reduced to nitrousacid3HNO₃+6H⁺+6e ⁻→3HNO₂+H₂Oby the reaction between the H⁺ ions and the nitric acid. Oxygen isintroduced into the catholyte through the air sparge 37 located belowthe liquid surface, and the nitric acid is regenerated,3HNO₂+3/2O₂→3HNO₃

The overall process results in the infectious waste being converted tocarbon dioxide, water, and a small amount of inorganic compounds insolution or as a precipitate, which will be extracted by the inorganiccompound removal and treatment system 15.

The MEO process has been tested using a whole small animal (dead) mouse.After the MEO process had run for a suitable time the physical structureof the mouse was totally converted into a liquid. The liquid was testedand only a very small amount of total carbon content was detected. Thecarbon content of the largest detected hydrocarbon molecules was lessthen ten (10) carbons per molecule. This result supports the conclusionthat the contents of the liquid were sterilized and disinfected. Themicroorganism tests to determine the existence of microorganism will becompleted following accepted protocols to substantiate the conclusionthat the MEO process destroys the infectious waste on the instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials.

The MEO process will operate in two modes (sterilization anddisinfection). In the first mode (sterilization) the MEO process willprecede until complete destruction of all the infectious waste on theinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials isaccomplished. The second mode (disinfection) the MEO process is modifiedto stop the process at a point where the destruction of the infectiouswaste is incomplete but the infectious materials are benign and do notneed further treatment.

Referring to FIG. 1A, the infectious waste on the instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials may be a liquid, solid, ora mixture of solids and liquids. Hinged lid 1 is lifted, theinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials areintroduced into the of EG Basket 3 in the reaction chamber 5 a wherethey remains while the liquid portion of the infectious waste will flowinto the anolyte. The EG Basket 3 sits on a rack 36 which is raised andlowered when the lid 1 is raised. When the Lid 1 is opened the anolytefluid is lowered to a level below the rack 36 so as to avoid contactwith the anolyte fluid. The apparatus continuously circulates theanolyte portion of the electrolyte directly from the electrochemicalcell 25 through the reaction chamber 5 a to maximize the concentrationof oxidizing species contacting the infectious waste. An in-line filter6 prevents solid particles large enough to clog the electrochemical cell25 flow paths from exiting the reaction chamber 5 a. Contact of theoxidizing species with incomplete oxidation products that are gaseous atthe conditions within the reaction chamber 5 a may be enhanced by usingconventional techniques for promoting gas/liquid contact (e.g.,ultrasonic vibration 9, mechanical mixing 7). All surfaces of theapparatus in contact with the anolyte or catholyte are composed ofstainless steel, glass, or nonreactive polymers (e.g., PTFE, PTFE linedtubing, etc.

The anolyte circulation system contains a pump 19 and a removal andtreatment system 15 (e.g., filter, centrifuge, hydrocyclone, etc,) toremove any insoluble inorganic compounds that form as a result ofmediator or electrolyte ions reacting with anions of or containinghalogens, sulfur, phosphorous, nitrogen, etc. that may be present in theinfectious waste stream thus preventing formation of unstableoxycompounds (e.g., perchlorates, etc.). The anolyte is then returned tothe electrochemical cell 25, where the oxidizing species areregenerated, which completes the circulation in the anolyte system (A).

The instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials may beadded to the EG Basket 3 in the reaction chamber either continuously orin the batch mode. The anolyte starts either at the operatingtemperature or at a lower temperature, which subsequently is increasedby the thermal control 21 to the desired operating temperature for thespecific infectious waste stream. The instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and/or materials may also be introduced into the apparatus,with the concentration of electrochemically generated oxidizing speciesin the anolyte being limited to some predetermined value between zeroand the maximum desired operating concentration for the infectious wastestream by control of the electric current by the system dc power supply29 supplied to the electrochemical cell 25. The electrolyte is composedof an aqueous solution of mediator species and electrolytes appropriatefor the species selected and is operated within the temperature rangefrom approximately 0° C. to slightly below the boiling point of theelectrolytic solution, usually less then 100° C., at a temperature ortemperature profile most conducive to the desired infectious wastedestruction rate (e.g., most rapid, most economical, etc.). The acid,alkaline, or neutral salt electrolyte used will be determined by theconditions in which the species will exist.

Considerable attention has been paid to halogens especially chlorine andtheir deleterious interactions with silver mediator ions, however thisis of much less concern or importance to this invention for thefollowing two reasons. First, the infectious waste considered hereintypically contains relatively small amounts of these halogen elementscompared to the halogenated solvents and nerve agents addressed in thecited patents. Second, the wide range of properties (e.g., oxidationpotential, solubility of compounds, cost, etc.) of the mediator speciesclaimed in this patent allows selection of a single or mixture ofmediators either avoiding formation of insoluble compounds, easilyrecovering the mediator from the precipitated materials, or beingsufficiently inexpensive so as to allow the simple disposal of theinsoluble compounds as waste, while still maintaining the capability tooxidize (i.e., destroy) the infectious waste economically.

The residue of the inorganic compounds is flushed out of the treatmentsystem 15 during periodic maintenance if necessary. If warranted, theinsoluble inorganic compounds are converted to water-soluble compoundsusing any one of several chemical or electrochemical processes.

The sterilization and disinfection processes will be monitored byseveral electrochemical and physical methods. Various cell voltages(e.g., open circuit, anode vs. reference electrode, ion specificelectrode, etc.) yield information about the ratio of oxidized toreduced mediator ion concentrations which will be correlated with theamount of reducing agent (i.e., infectious waste) either dissolved in orwetted by the anolyte. If a color change accompanies the transition ofthe mediator species between it's oxidized and reduced states (e.g.,heteropoly blues, etc.), the rate of decay of the color associated withthe oxidized state, under zero current conditions, could be used as agross indication of the amount of reducing agent (i.e., oxidizableinfectious waste) present. If no color change occurs in the mediator, itmay be possible to select another mediator to simply serve as theoxidization potential equivalent of a pH indicator. Such an indicatorwill be required to have an oxidation potential between that of theworking mediator and the infectious species, and a color changeassociated with the oxidization state transition.

The anode reaction chamber off-gas will consist of CO₂ and CO fromcomplete and incomplete combustion (i.e., oxidation) of the carbonaceousmaterial in the infectious waste, and possibly oxygen from oxidation ofwater molecules at the anode. Standard anesthesiology practice requiresthese three gases to be routinely monitored in real time under operatingroom conditions, while many other respiratory related medical practicesalso require real time monitoring of these gases. Thus a mature industryexist for the production of miniaturized gas monitors directlyapplicable to the continuous quantitative monitoring of anolyte off-gasfor the presence of combustion products. Although usually not asaccurate and requiring larger samples, monitors for these same gassesare used in the furnace and boiler service industry for flue gasanalysis.

The entireties of U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,725,226, 4,202,740, 4,384,943,4,686,019; 4,749,519; 4,874,485; 4,925,643; 5,364,508; 5,516,972;5,745,835; 5,756,874; 5,810,995; 5,855,763; 5,911,868; 5,919,350;5,952,542; and 6,096,283 are included herein by reference for theirrelevant teachings.

MEO Apparatus

The MEO process will operate in two modes (sterilization anddisinfection). A schematic drawing of the MEO apparatus shown in FIG. 1AMEO Apparatus Diagram illustrates the application of the MEO process tothe instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials tosterilize or disinfect them. The MEO apparatus is composed of twoseparate closed-loop systems containing an electrolyte solution composedof anolyte and catholyte solutions. The anolyte and catholyte solutionsare contained in the anolyte (A) system and the catholyte (B) system,respectively. These two systems are discussed in detail in the followingparagraphs. There are numerous variations on the configuration of theanolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c,d) and the modes of operation. Theanolyte reaction chamber has numerous configurations as represented byFIGS. 1B thru 1E. The configuration in FIG. 1B being used in mode onewill be discussed as illustrative of the many anolyte reaction chambersand operation modes combinations. This combination will be discussed indetail in the following paragraphs.

ANOLYTE SYSTEM (A)

The bulk of the anolyte resides in the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a(FIG. 1B). The hinged lid 1 is raised and the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials are placed in EG Basket3 in the reaction chamber 5 a containing liquid, solid, or a mixture ofliquids and solids infectious waste. The EG Basket 3 sits on a rack 36which is raised and lowered when the lid 1 is raised. When the Lid 1 isopened the anolyte fluid is lowered to a level below the rack 36 so asto avoid contact with the anolyte fluid.

The anolyte portion of the electrolyte solution contains for exampleFe⁺³/FeO₄ ⁻² redox couple anions and secondary oxidizing species (e.g.,free radicals, •H₂O₂, etc.). The bulk of the anolyte resides in theanolyte reaction chamber 5 a. The anolyte is circulated into thereaction chamber 5 a through the electrochemical cell 25 by pump 19 onthe anode 26 side of the membrane 27. A membrane 27 in theelectrochemical cell 25 separates the anolyte portion and catholyteportion of the electrolyte. A filter 6 is located at the base of thereaction chamber 5 a to limit the size of the solid particles toapproximately 1 mm in diameter (i.e., smaller than the minimum dimensionof the anolyte flow path in the electrochemical cell 25). Small thermalcontrol units 21 and 22 are connected to the flow stream to heat or coolthe anolyte to the selected temperature range. The heat exchanger 23lowers the temperature of the anolyte entering the electrochemical celland the heat exchanger 24 raises the temperature before it enters theanolyte reaction chamber 5 a. The electrochemical cell 25 is energizedby a DC power supply 29, which is powered by the AC power supply 30. TheDC power supply 29 is low voltage high current supply usually operatingbelow 10V DC but not limited to that range. The AC power supply 30operates off a typical 110v AC line for the smaller units and 240v ACfor the larger units.

The oxidizer species population produced by electrochemical generation(i.e., anodic oxidation) of the oxidized form of the redox couplesreferenced herein can be enhanced by conducting the process at lowtemperatures, thereby reducing the rate at which thermally activatedparasitic reactions consume the oxidizer. If warranted a heat exchanger23 can be located immediately upstream from the electrochemical cell 25to lower the anolyte temperature within the cell to the desired level.Another heat exchanger 24 can be located immediately upstream of theanolyte reaction chamber inlet to control the anolyte temperature in thereaction chamber to within the desired temperature range to affect thedesired chemical reactions at the desired rates.

The electrolyte containment boundary is composed of materials resistantto the oxidizing electrolyte (e.g., stainless steels, PTFE, PTFE linedtubing, glass, etc.). Reaction products resulting from the oxidizingprocesses occurring in the anolyte system (A) of the system that aregaseous at the anolyte operating temperature and pressure are dischargedto the condenser 13. The more easily condensed products of incompleteoxidation are separated in the condenser 13 from the anolyte off-gasstream and are returned to the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a for furtheroxidation. The non-condensable incomplete oxidation products (e.g., lowmolecular weight organics, carbon monoxide, etc.) are reduced toacceptable levels for atmospheric release by a gas cleaning system 16.The gas cleaning system 16 is not a necessary component of the MEOapparatus for the destruction of most types of infectious waste on theinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials.

If the gas cleaning system 16 is incorporated into the MEO apparatus,the anolyte off-gas is contacted in a counter current flow gas scrubbingsystem in the off-gas cleaning system 16 wherein the noncondensiblesfrom the condenser 13 are introduced into the lower portion of thecolumn through a flow distribution system of the gas cleaning system 16and a small side stream of freshly oxidized anolyte direct from theelectrochemical cell 25 is introduced into the upper portion of thecolumn. This will result in the gas phase continuously reacting with theoxidizing mediator species as it rises up the column past the downflowing anolyte. Under these conditions the gas about to exit the top ofthe column will have the lowest concentration of oxidizable species andwill also be in contact with the anolyte having the highestconcentration of oxidizer species thereby promoting reduction of any airpollutants present down to levels acceptable for release to theatmosphere. Gas-liquid contact within the column will be promoted by anumber of well established methods (e.g., packed column, pulsed flow,ultrasonic mixing, etc,) that will not result in any meaningful backpressure within the anolyte flow system. Unique infectious wastecompositions may result in the generation of unusual gaseous productsthat could more easily be removed by more traditional air pollutiontechnologies. Such methodologies could be used in series with the aforedescribed system as a polishing process treating the gaseous dischargefrom the counter current column, or if advantageous, instead of it. Themajor products of the oxidation process are CO₂, and water (includingminor amounts of CO and inorganic salts), where the CO₂ is vented 14 outof the system.

An optional inorganic compound removal and treatment systems 15 is usedshould there be more than trace amount of halogens, or other precipitateforming anions present in the infectious waste being processed, therebyprecluding formation of unstable oxycompounds (e.g., perchlorates,etc.).

The MEO process will proceed until complete destruction of theinfectious waste has been affected on the instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and/or materials (sterilization) or be modified tostop the process at a point where the destruction of the infectiouswaste is incomplete (disinfection). The reason for stopping the processis that the infectious materials are benign and do not need furthertreatment. The organic compounds recovery system 17 is used to performthis process.

Catholyte System (B)

The bulk of the catholyte is resident in the catholyte reaction chamber31. The catholyte portion of the electrolyte is circulated by pump 43through the electrochemical cell 25 on the cathode 28 side of themembrane 27. The membrane does not allow the infectious agents to crossfrom the anolyte into the catholyte. The catholyte portion of theelectrolyte flows into a catholyte reservoir 31. Small thermal controlunits 45 and 46 are connected to the catholyte flow stream to heat orcool the catholyte to the selected temperature range. External air isintroduced through an air sparge 37 into the catholyte reservoir 31. Theoxygen contained in the air oxidizes nitrous acid and the small amountsof nitrogen oxides (NO_(x)), produced by the cathode reactions, tonitric acid and NO₂, respectively. Contact of the oxidizing gas withnitrous acid may be enhanced by using conventional techniques forpromoting gas/liquid contact by a mixer 35 (e.g., ultrasonic vibration48, mechanical mixing 35, etc.). Systems using non-nitric acidcatholytes may also require air sparging to dilute and remove off-gassuch as hydrogen. An off-gas cleaning system 39 is used to remove anyunwanted gas products (e.g. NO₂, etc.). The cleaned gas stream, combinedwith the unreacted components of the air introduced into the system isdischarged through the atmospheric vent 47.

Optional anolyte recovery system 41 is positioned on the catholyte side.Some mediator oxidizer ions may cross the membrane 27 and this option isavailable if it is necessary to remove them through the anolyte recoverysystem 41 to maintain process efficiency or cell operability, or theireconomic worth necessitates their recovery. Operating theelectrochemical cell 25 at higher than normal membrane 27 currentdensities (i.e., above about 0.5 amps/cm²) will increase the rate ofinfectious waste destruction, but also result in increased mediator iontransport through the membrane into the catholyte. It may beeconomically advantageous for the electrochemical cell 25 to be operatedin this mode. It is advantageous whenever the replacement cost of themediator species or removal/recovery costs are less than the costbenefits of increasing the infectious waste throughput (i.e., oxidationrate) of the electrochemical cell 25. Increasing the capitol cost ofexpanding the size of the electrochemical cell 25 can be avoided byusing this operational option.

System Model

A preferred embodiment, MEO System Model 5.b (shown in FIG. 2 MEO SystemModel 5.b) is sized for use on the ward of a hospital or in a smallmedical or veterinary laboratory. Other preferred embodiments havedifferences in the external configuration and size but are essentiallythe same in internal function and components as depicted in FIGS. 1Athrough FIG. 1E. The preferred embodiment in FIG. 2 comprises a housing72 constructed of metal or high strength plastic surrounding theelectrochemical cell 25, the electrolyte and the foraminous EG Basket 3.The AC power is provided to the AC power supply 30 by the power cord 78.A monitor screen 51 is incorporated into the housing 72 for displayinginformation about the system and about the infectious waste beingtreated. Additionally, a control keyboard 53 is incorporated into thehousing 72 for inputting information into the system. The monitor screen51 and the control keyboard 53 may be attached to the system withoutincorporating them into the housing 72. In a preferred embodiment,status lights 73 are incorporated into the housing 72 for displayinginformation about the status of the treatment of the infectious waste onthe instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials. Anair sparge 37 is incorporated into the housing 72 to allow air to beintroduced into the catholyte reaction chamber 31 below the surface ofthe catholyte. In addition, a CO₂ vent 14 is incorporated into thehousing 72 to allow for CO₂ release from the anolyte reaction chamberhoused within. In a preferred embodiment, the housing includes means forcleaning out the MEO infectious waste treatment system, including aflush(s) 18 and drain(s) 12 through which the anolyte and catholyte willpass. The preferred embodiment further comprises an atmospheric vent 47facilitating the releases of gases into the atmosphere from thecatholyte reaction chamber 31. Other preferred embodiment systems aresimilar in nature but are scaled up in size to handle a larger capacityof instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materialscontaining infectious waste, such as operating rooms, laboratories,incinerator replacement units, etc.

The system has a control keyboard 53 for input of commands and data. TheOn/Off button 74 is used to turn the apparatus power on and off. Thereis a monitor screen 51 to display the systems operation and functions.Below the keyboard 53 and monitor screen 51 are the status lights 73 foron, off, and standby. Hinged lid 1 is opened and the contaminatedinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials aredeposited in the EG Basket 3 in the chamber 5 a. A lid stop 2 keeps thelid opening controlled. The hinged lid 1 is equipped with a lockinglatch 76 that is operated by the controller 49. In the chamber 5 a isthe aqueous acid, alkali, or neutral salt electrolyte and mediatedoxidizer species solution in which the oxidizer form of the mediatorredox couple initially may be present or may be generatedelectrochemically after introduction of the infectious waste andapplication of DC power 30 to the electrochemical cell 25. Similarly,the contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials will be introduced when the anolyte is at room temperature,operating temperature or some optimum intermediate temperature. DC powersupply 30 provides direct current to an electrochemical cell 25. Pump 19circulates the anolyte portion of the electrolyte and the infectiouswaste material is rapidly oxidized at temperatures below 100° C. andambient pressure. An in-line filter 6 prevents solid particles largeenough to clog the electrochemical cell 25 flow paths from exiting thisreaction chamber 5 a. The oxidation process will continue to break thematerials down into smaller and smaller molecules until they reach CO₂,water, and some CO and inorganic salts. Any residue is pacified in theform of a salt and may be periodically removed through the InorganicCompound Removal and Treatment System 15 and drain outlets 12. Theelectrolyte can be replaced with a different electrolyte when using thesame plumbing for their introduction into the reaction chambers 5 and 31changes the application or contaminating infectious waste to bedestroyed. The catholyte reservoir 31 has a screwed top 33 (shown inFIG. 1A), which allow access to the reservoir 31 for cleaning andmaintenance by service personnel.

The MEO apparatus as an option may be placed in a standby mode with thecontaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials being added as they are generated throughout the day and theunit placed in full activation during non-business hours. The MEOprocess advantageous properties of low power consumption and very lowloses of the mediated oxidizer species and electrolyte, provide as anoption for the device to be operated at a low level during the day toachieve a slow rate of destruction of the infectious waste throughoutthe day.

The compactness and scalability of the device makes it ideal formedical/dental/veterinary offices and operating rooms as well as beingsuitable for use with high volume inputs of laboratories and hospitalsnon-operating room activities. The process operates at low temperatureand ambient atmospheric pressure and does not generate toxic compoundsduring the destruction of the infectious waste, making the processindoors compatible. The system is scalable to a unit large enough toreplace a hospital incinerator system. The CO₂ oxidation product fromthe anolyte system A is vented out the CO₂ vent 14. The off-gas productsfrom the catholyte system B is vented through the atmospheric air vent47 as shown.

System Controller

An operator runs the MEO Apparatus (FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 2) by usingthe MEO Controller depicted in FIG. 3 MEO Controller. The controller 49with microprocessor is connected to a monitor 51 and a keyboard 53. Theoperator inputs commands to the controller 49 through the keyboard 53responding to the information displayed on the monitor 51. Thecontroller 49 runs a program that sequences the steps for the operationof the MEO apparatus. The program has pre-programmed sequences ofstandard operations that the operator will follow or he will choose hisown sequences of operations. The controller 49 will allow the operatorto select his own sequences within limits that assure a safe andreliable operation. The controller 49 sends digital commands thatregulates the electrical power (AC 30 and DC 29) to the variouscomponents in the MEO apparatus; pumps 19 and 43, mixers 7 and 35,thermal controls 21, 22, 45, 46, ultraviolet sources 11, ultrasonicsources 9 and 48, CO₂ vent 14, air sparge 37, and electrochemical cell25. The controller receives component response and status from thecomponents. The controller sends digital commands to the sensors toaccess sensor information through sensor responses. The sensors in theMEO apparatus provide digital information on the state of the variouscomponents. Sensors measure flow rate 59, temperature 61, pH 63, CO₂venting 65, degree of oxidation 67, air sparge sensor 69, etc. Thecontroller 49 receives status information on the electrical potential(voltmeter 57) across the electrochemical cell, or individual cells if amulti-cell configuration, and between the anode(s) and referenceelectrodes internal to the cell(s) 25 and the current (ammeter 55)flowing between the electrodes within each cell.

Steps of the Operation of the MEO Process

The steps of the operation of the MEO process are depicted in FIG. 4 MEOSystem Operational Steps. This MEO apparatus is contained in the housing72. The MEO system is started 81 by the operator engaging the ‘ON’button 74 (status lights 73) on the control keyboard 53. The systemcontroller 49, which contains a microprocessor, runs the program thatcontrols the entire sequence of operations 82. The monitor screen 51displays the steps of the process in the proper sequence. The statuslights 73 on the panel provide the status of the MEO apparatus (e.g. on,off, ready, standby). The lid 1 is opened and the contaminatedinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials (which canbe in liquid, solid, and a mixture)are placed 83 in the EG Basket 3,whereupon the instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials are retained and the liquid portion flows through the EGBasket 3 and into the anolyte. The locking latch 76 is activated. Thepumps 19 and 43 begin circulation 85 of the anolyte 87 and catholyte 89,respectively. As soon as the electrolyte circulation is establishedthroughout the system, the mixers 7 and 35 begin to operate 91 and 93.Depending upon infectious waste characteristics (e.g., reactionkinetics, heat of reaction, etc.) it may be desirable to introduce thecontaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials into a room temperature or cooler anolyte system with littleor none of the mediator redox couple in the oxidizer form. Once flow isestablished the thermal controls units 21, 22, 45, and 46 are turned on95/97, initiating predetermined anodic oxidation and electrolyte heatingprograms. The electrochemical cell 25 is energized 94 (by cell commands56) to the electric potential 57 and current 55 density determined bythe controller program. By using programmed electrical power andelectrolyte temperature ramps it is possible to maintain a predeterminedinfectious waste destruction rate profile such as a relatively constantreaction rate as the more reactive infectious waste components areoxidized, thus resulting in the remaining infectious waste becoming lessand less reactive, thereby requiring more and more vigorous oxidizingconditions. The ultrasonic 9 and 48 and ultraviolet systems 11 areactivated 99 and 101 in the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a and catholytereaction chamber 31 if those options are chosen in the controllerprogram. The CO₂ vent 14 is activated 103 to release CO₂ from theinfectious waste oxidation process in the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a.The air sparge 37 and atmospheric vent 47 are activated 105 in thecatholyte system. The progress of the destruction process will bemonitored in the controller (oxidation sensor 67) by various cellvoltages and currents 55, 57 (e.g., open circuit, anode vs. referenceelectrode, ion specific electrodes, etc,) as well as monitoring anolyteoff-gas (using the sensor 65) composition for CO₂, CO and oxygencontent.

The infectious waste is being decomposed into water and CO₂ the latterbeing discharged 103 out of the CO₂ vent 14. Air sparge 37 draws air 105into the catholyte reservoir 31, and excess air is discharged out theatmospheric vent 47. When the oxidation sensors 65 and 67 determine thedesired degree of infectious waste destruction has been obtained 107,the system goes to standby 109. The system operator executes systemshutdown 111 using the controller keyboard 53.

EXAMPLES

The following examples illustrate the application of the process and theapparatus.

Example (1) Destruction of Biological Specimens: The MEO apparatus usingthe MEO process was tested using a number of whole small animals (deadmice). The MEO process was run at less then 100 watts for approximatelyan hour. The entire physical structure of the mouse was totallyconverted into a liquid. The liquid was tested using GC/FID analysis anddid not show evidence of any hydrocarbons present. The detection limitfor this analysis method (GC/FID) is approximately 1 to 10 ppm (partsper million). This result supports the conclusion that the contents ofthe liquid were sterile and disinfected. The microorganism tests todetermine the existence of microorganism will be completed followingaccepted protocols to substantiate the conclusion that the MEO processdestroys the infectious waste on the instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials.

Example (2) Efficient and Environmentally Safe Products: The MEO processproduces CO₂, water, and trace inorganic salts all of which areconsidered benign for introduction into the environment by regulatoryagencies. The cost of using the MEO process in this invention iscompetitive with both the incineration and landfill methodologies. TheMEO process is uniquely suited for destruction of infectious wastebecause water, which constitutes a major portion of this infectiouswaste (e.g., tissue, bodies fluids, etc.) is either benign or actually asource of secondary oxidizing species, rather than parasitic reactionscompeting for the mediator oxidizing species. Furthermore, the energythat must be provided in the MEO process to heat the infectious wastestream water component from ambient to the electrolyte operatingtemperature (i.e., 80° C. maximum temperature increase) is trivialcompared to the water enthalpy increase required in autoclave orincineration based processes.

Example (3) Benign In-door Operation: The system is unique relative toearlier art, since it is built to operate in an indoor environment suchas a hospital room or laboratory where it must be compatible with peopleworking in close proximity to the system as well as people being treatedfor medical conditions. The system is suitable for indoor use in spacesinhabited by personnel as well as for industrial workspaces similar toan incinerator building.

Example (4) Inherently Safe Operation: The system is built to requirelimited operating skill. The system controller is programmed to guidethe operator through the normal operating cycle as well as the variousoptions available. The system is accessible during its operating cycleso that additional contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and/or materials may be added to infectious waste in process,while remaining compatible with the room environment. The physicalsterilization methods such as autoclaves are not as flexible and can notbe stopped during their operating cycle. When new contaminatedinstruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or materials are to beadded to the system during operation the operator selects that option.The system controller recycles the system operational steps back to step83. It deactivates steps 85, 87, 89, 91, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 101 andmaintains steps 103 and 105 in their active mode. The controllerreleases the locking latch 76 and the operator will add additionalcontaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials. After he has completed the addition he selects the restartoption. The system recycles back through these steps to continue theprocessing of the infectious waste.

Example (5) Chemical Reactions are Safe: The system is built to operatewith materials that are safe to handle in the environment in which it isto be used. The infectious waste contains little or no substances thatreact with our choice of electrolytes to produce volatile compounds thatwill offer a problem in the room environment. The system will operate attemperatures from approximately 0° C. to slightly less then the boilingpoint of the electrolyte, which is usually less then 100° C. and atambient atmospheric pressure, which adds to the indoor compatibility.

Example (6) A Green Machine: The simplicity of the new system built foruse with contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils,and/or materials produces a system more economically to operate andcleaner to use than existing infectious waste treatments. In the case ofcommonly used disinfection methods such as chlorine compounds, iodines,alcohols, ammonium, and aldehydes. The system complexity is reduced bycomparison to previous MEO systems, since there is not a requirement todeal with large quantities of halogens. The system is truly a ‘greenmachine’ in the sense of an environmentally benign system.

Example (7) System Flexibility: The system is built so that thecomposition of the electrolyte may be changed to adapt the system to aselected composition of the infectious waste stream. The system isconfigured with ports to flush and drain the anolyte and catholyteseparately.

Example (8) System By-Products are Safe: The system flexibility providesfor the introduction of more then one mediator ion resulting in markedimprovement in the efficiency of the electrolyte. Furthermore, itdesensitizes the electrolyte to chlorine ions in solution (i.e. allowsincreased ease in preventing formation of unstable perchloratecompounds).

While the invention has been described with reference to specificembodiments, modifications and variations of the invention may beconstructed without departing from the scope of the invention, which isdefined in the following characteristics and features.

The invention provides the following new characteristics and features:

1. A process for sterilizing/disinfecting by treating and oxidizinginfectious waste materials on the contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and/or materials comprising disposing anelectrolyte in an electrochemical cell, separating the electrolyte intoan anolyte portion and a catholyte portion with an ion-selectivemembrane or semipermeable membrane applying a direct current voltagebetween the anolyte portion and the catholyte portion, placing thecontaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and/ormaterials in the anolyte portion, and oxidizing the infectious wastematerials in the anolyte portion with a mediated electrochemicaloxidation (MEO) process, wherein the anolyte portion further comprises amediator in aqueous solution and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral oralkaline aqueous solution.2. The process of paragraph 1, wherein:

a. the anolyte portion further comprises one or more simple anionsmediator ion: species selected from the group described in Table I (inthe aqueous solution and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral or alkalinesolution;

b. The oxidizing species are selected from one or more Type Iisopolyanions (i.e., complex anion redox couple mediators) containingtungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, niobium, tantalum, or combinationsthereof as addenda atoms in aqueous solution and the electrolyte is anacid, neutral or alkaline aqueous solution;

c. The oxidizing species are selected from one or more Type Iheteropolyanions formed by incorporation into the aforementionedisopolyanions, as heteroatoms, any of the elements listed in Table II,either singly or in combination thereof in the aqueous solutions and theelectrolyte is an acid, neutral, or alkaline aqueous solution;

d. The oxidizing species are selected from one or more of anyheteropolyanions containing at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element)contained in both Table I and Table II in the aqueous solutions and theelectrolyte is an acid, neutral, or alkaline aqueous solution;

e. The oxidizing species are selected from combinations of anion redoxcouple mediators from any or all of the previous four subparagraphs(2a., 2b., 2c., and 2d.);

f. adding stabilizing compounds to the electrolyte such as tellurate orperiodate ions which serve to overcome and stabilize the short lifetimeof the oxidized form of the higher oxidation state species of the simpleand complex anion redox couple mediators;

g. the oxidizing species are elements having atomic numbers less than 90and identified in Table I;

h. each of the species has normal valence states and higher valenceoxidizing states and further comprising creating the higher valenceoxidizing states of the oxidizing species by stripping electrons fromnormal valence state species in the electrochemical cell;

i. the oxidizing species are “super oxidizers” (SO) typically exhibitoxidation potentials at least equal to that of the Ce⁺³/Ce⁺⁴ redoxcouple (i.e., 1.7 volts at 1 molar, 25° C. and pH 1) which are redoxcouple species that have the capability of producing free radicals suchas hydroxyl or perhydroxyl and further comprising creating secondaryoxidizers by reacting the SO's with water;

j. using an alkaline solution for aiding decomposing of the infectiouswaste materials derived from the saponification (i.e., base promotedester hydrolysis) of fatty acids to form water soluble alkali metalsalts of the fatty acids (i.e., soaps) and glycerin, a process similarto the production of soap from animal fat by introducing it into a hotaqueous lye solution.;

k. using an alkaline anolyte solution that absorbs CO₂ forming fromoxidation of the infectious waste sodium bicarbonate/carbonate solutionwhich subsequently circulates through the electrochemical cell,producing a percarbonate oxidizer;

l. using oxidizing species from the MEO process inorganic free radicalswill be generated in aqueous solutions from species such as but notlimited to carbonate, azide, nitrite, nitrate, phosphite, phosphate,sulfite, sulfate, selenite, thiocyanate, chloride, bromide, iodide, andformate oxidizing species;

m. the regeneration of the oxidizer part of the redox couple in theanolyte portion is done within the electrochemical cell;

n. the membrane(separator between anolyte and catholyte solutions) canbe microporous plastic, sintered glass frit, etc.;

o. the impression of an AC voltage upon the DC voltage to retard theformation of cell performance limiting surface films on the electrode;

p. disposing a foraminous EG Basket 3 in the anolyte;

q. adding oxygen (this is necessary only for HNO₃ ⁻ or NO₃ ⁻ salts) tothe catholyte portion;

r. the oxidizer species addressed in this patent are described in: TableI (simple anions); Type I isopolyanions containing tungsten, molybdenum,vanadium, niobium, tantalum, or combinations thereof as addenda atoms;Type I heteropolyanions formed by incorporation into the aforementionedisoopolyanions, as heteroatoms, any of the elements listed in Table II,either singly or in combinations thereof; or any heteropolyanionscontaining at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element) contained inboth Table I and Table II;

s. lower the temperature (e.g. between 0° C. and room temperature) ofthe anolyte before it enters the electrochemical cell to enhance thegeneration of the oxidized form of the anion redox couple mediator; and

t. raise the temperature of the anolyte entering the anolyte reactionchamber to affect the desired chemical reactions at the desired ratesfollowing the lowering of the temperature of the anolyte entering theelectrochemical cell.

3. The process of paragraph 1, wherein:

a. introducing an ultrasonic energy into the anolyte portion rupturingcell membranes in the infectious waste materials by momentarily raisinglocal temperature within the cell membranes with the ultrasonic energyto above several thousand degrees and causing cell membrane failure;

b. introducing ultraviolet energy into the anolyte portion anddecomposing hydrogen peroxide and ozone into hydroxyl free radicalstherein, thereby increasing efficiency of the MEO process by convertingproducts of electron consuming parasitic reactions (i.e., ozone andhydrogen peroxide) into viable free radical (i.e., secondary) oxidizerswithout the consumption of additional electrons;

c. using a surfactant to be added to the anolyte promote dispersion ofthe infectious waste or intermediate stage reaction products within theaqueous solution when these infectious waste or reaction products arenot water-soluble and tend to form immiscible layers;

d. using simple and/or complex redox couple mediators, and attackingspecific organic molecules with the oxidizing species while operating atlow temperatures thus preventing the formation of dioxins and furans;

e. breaking down infectious waste materials into organic compounds andattacking the organic compounds using either the simple and/or complexanion redox couple mediator or inorganic free radicals to generatingorganic free radicals;

f. raising normal valence state anions to a higher valence state andstripping the normal valence state anions of electrons in theelectrochemical cell; [The oxidized forms of any other redox couplespresent are produced either by similar anodic oxidation or reaction withthe oxidized form of other redox couples present. The oxidized speciesof the redox couples oxidize the infectious waste molecules and arethemselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they arereoxidized by either of the aforementioned mechanisms and the redoxcycle continues]

g. circulating anions through an electrochemical cell to affect theanodic oxidation of the reduced form of the reversible redox couple intothe oxidized form;

h. contacting anions with infectious waste materials in the anolyteportion;

i. circulating anions through the electrochemical cell;

j. involving anions with an oxidation potential above a threshold valueof 1.7 volts (i.e., superoxidizer) in a secondary oxidation process andproducing oxidizers;

k. adding a ultra-violet (UV) energy source to the anolyte portion andaugmenting secondary oxidation processes, breaking down hydrogenperoxide and ozone into hydroxyl free radicals, and thus increasing theoxidation processes;

l. introducing an ultrasonic energy source into the anolyte portion andirradiating cell membranes in infectious waste materials and momentarilyraising local temperature within the cell membranes and causing cellmembrane failure creating greater exposure of cell contents to oxidizingspecies in the anolyte portion; and

m. The oxidizer species addressed in this patent (I.e., characteristicelements having atomic number below 90) are described in Table I (simpleanions redox couple mediators): Type I IPAs formed by Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta,or mixtures there of; Type I HPAs formed by incorporation into theaforementioned IPAs if any of the elements listed in Table II(heteroatoms) either singly or in thereof; Or any HPA containing atleast one heteroatom type (i.e., element) contained in both Table I andTable II or combinations mediator species from any or all of thesegeneric groups.

4. The process of paragraph 1, further comprising:

a. using oxidizer species that are found in situ in the, infectiouswaste to be destroyed, by circulating the infectious waste-anolytemixture through an electrochemical cell where the oxidized form of thein situ reversible redox couple will be formed by anodic oxidation oralternately reacting with the oxidized form of a more powerful redoxcouple, if added to the anolyte and anodically oxidized in theelectrochemical cell, thereby destroying the infectious waste material;

b. using an alkaline electrolyte, such as but not limited to NaOH or KOHwith mediator species wherein the reduced form of said mediator redoxcouple displays sufficient solubility in said electrolyte to allow thedesired oxidation of the infectious waste to proceed at a practicalrate. The oxidation potential of redox reactions producing hydrogen ions(i.e., both mediator species and infectious waste molecules reactions)are inversely proportional to the electrolyte pH, thus with the properselection of a mediator redox couple, it is possible, by increasing theelectrolyte pH, to minimize the electric potential required to affectthe desired oxidation process, thereby reducing the electric powerconsumed per unit mass of infectious waste destroyed; and

c. the aqueous solution is chosen from acids such as but not limited tonitric acid, sulfuric acid, or phosphoric acid, or mixtures thereof; oralkalines such as but not limited to of sodium hydroxide or potassiumhydroxide, or mixtures thereof, or neutral electrolytes,. such as butnot limited to sodium or potassium nitrates, sulfates, or phosphates ormixtures thereof.

-   -   d. the use of ultrasonic energy induce microscopic bubble        implosion which will be used to affect a desired reduction in        sized of the individual second phase infectious waste volumes        dispersed in the anolyte.        5. The process of paragraph 1, further comprising:

a. interchanging oxidizing species in a preferred embodiment withoutchanging equipment; and

b. the electrolyte is acid, neutral, or alkaline in aqueous solution.

6. The process of paragraph 1, further comprising:

a. separating the anolyte portion and the catholyte portion with aion-selective or semi-permeable membrane, or microporous polymermembrane, ceramic membrane, or sintered glass frit, or other similarmembrane;

b. applying an externally induced electrical potential induced betweenthe anode(s) and cathode(s) plates of the electrochemical cell at aelectrical potential sufficient to form the oxidized form of the redoxcouple having the highest oxidation potential in the anolyte;

c. introducing contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils,and materials into the anolyte portion;

d. forming the reduced form of one or more reversible redox couples bycontacting with oxidizable molecules, the reaction with which oxidizesthe oxidizable material with the concuminent reduction of the oxidizedform of the reversible redox couples to their reduced form;

e. the ultrasonic source connected to the anolyte for augmentingsecondary oxidation processes by momentarily heating the hydrogenperoxide in the electrolyte to 4800° C. at 1000 atmospheres therebydissociating the hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl free radicals thusincreasing the oxidation processes;

f. oxidation potentials of redox reactions producing hydrogen ions areinversely related to pH;

g. the process is performed at a temperature from slightly above 0° C.to slightly below the boiling point of the electrolyte usually less then100° C.;

h. the temperature at which the process is performed is varied;

i. the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials comprises treating and oxidizingliquid infectious waste;

j. the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials comprises treating and oxidizingsolid infectious waste;

k. the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials comprises treating and oxidizing acombination of solid and liquid infectious waste; and

l. removing and treating precipitates resulting from combinations ofoxidizing species and other species released from the infectious wasteduring destruction.

7. The process of paragraph 1, further comprising that it is notnecessary for both the anolyte and catholyte solutions to contain thesame electrolyte rather each electrolyte system may be independent ofthe other, consisting of an aqueous solution of acids, typically but notlimited to nitric, sulfuric or phosphoric; alkali, typically but notlimited to sodium or potassium hydroxide; or neutral salt, typically butnot limited to sodium or potassium salts of the afore mentioned strongacids.8. The process of paragraph 1, further comprising the operating of theelectrochemical cell at a current density greater then 0.5 amp persquare centimeter across the membrane, even though this is the limitover which there is the possibility that metallic anions may leakthrough the membrane in small quantities, and recovering the metallicanions through a devise such as a resin column thus allowing a greaterrate of destruction of materials in the anolyte chamber.

9.The process of paragraph 1, wherein:

a. the catholyte solution further comprises an aqueous solution and theelectrolyte in the solution is composed of acids, typically but notlimited to nitric, sulfuric or phosphoric; or alkali, typically but notlimited to sodium or potassium hydroxide; or neutral salt, typically butnot limited to sodium or potassium salts of the afore mentioned strongacids;

b. adding oxygen (this is necessary only for HNO₃ ⁻ or NO₃ ⁻ salts) tothe catholyte portion;

c. concentration of electrolyte in the catholyte will be governed by itseffect upon the conductivity of the catholyte solution desired in theelectrochemical cell;

d. ultrasonic energy induced microscopic bubble implosion will be usedto affect vigorous mixing in the catholyte solution where it isdesirable to oxidize nitric acid and the small amounts of nitrogenoxides when nitric acid is used in the catholyte electrolyte;

e. mechanical mixing will be used to affect vigorous mixing in thecatholyte solution where it is desirable to oxidize nitric acid and thesmall amounts of nitrogen oxides;

f. air is introduced into the catholyte solution to promote oxidation ofnitric acid and the small amounts of nitrogen oxides when nitric acid isused in the catholyte electrolyte;

g. air is introduced into the catholyte solution to dilute any hydrogenproduced in the catholyte solution before being released; and

h. hydrogen gas evolving from the cathode is feed to an apparatus thatuses hydrogen as a fuel such as a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuelcell.

10. An apparatus for sterilizing/disinfecting by treating and oxidizinginfectious waste materials comprising an electrochemical cell, anelectrolyte disposed in the electrochemical cell, a hydrogen orhydronium ion-permeable membrane, disposed in the electrochemical cellfor separating the cell into anolyte and catholyte chambers andseparating the electrolyte into anolyte and catholyte portions,electrodes further comprising an anode and a cathode disposed in theelectrochemical cell respectively in the anolyte and catholyte chambersand in the anolyte and catholyte portions of the electrolyte, a powersupply connected to the anode and the cathode for applying a directcurrent voltage between the anolyte and the catholyte portions of theelectrolyte, a foraminous EG Basket disposed in the anolyte chamber forreceiving the infectious waste materials, and oxidizing of theinfectious waste materials in the anolyte portion with a mediatedelectrochemical oxidation (MEO) process wherein the anolyte portionfurther comprises a mediator in aqueous solution and the electrolyte isan acid, neutral or alkaline aqueous solution.11. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. adding stabilizing compounds to the electrolyte such as tellurate orperiodate ions which serve to overcome and stabilize the short lifetimeof the oxidized form of the higher oxidation state species of the simpleand complex anion redox couple mediators;

b. the oxidizer species addressed in this patent (i.e., characteristicelements having atomic number below 90) are described in Table I (simpleanions redox couple mediators);

c. the oxidizer species addressed in this patent are; Type I IPAs formedby Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta, or mixtures there of; Type I HPAs formed byincorporation into the aforementioned IPAs if any of the elements listedin Table II (heteroatoms) either singly or in thereof; Or any HPAcontaining at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element) contained inboth Table I and Table II;

d. the oxidizer species addressed in this patent are combinationsmediator species from any or all of these generic groups;

e. the oxidizing species are super oxidizers and further comprisingcreating secondary oxidizers by reacting the super oxidizers with theaqueous anolyte;

f. an alkaline solution for aiding decomposing the infectious wastematerials;

g. an alkaline solution for absorbing CO₂ and forming alkali metalbicarbonate/carbonate for circulating through the electrochemical cellfor producing a percarbonate oxidizer;

h. using oxidizing species from the MEO process inorganic free radicalswill be generated in aqueous solutions derived from carbonate, azide,nitrite, nitrate, phosphite, phosphate, sulfite, sulfate, selenite,thiocyanate, chloride, bromide, iodide, and formate oxidizing species;

i. organic free radicals for aiding the MEO process and breaking downthe infectious waste materials into simpler (i.e., smaller molecularstructure )organic compounds;

j. anions with an oxidation potential above a threshold value of 1.7volts (i.e., super oxidizer) for involving in a secondary oxidationprocess for producing oxidizers;

k. the use of Ultrasonic energy induce microscopic bubble implosionwhich is used to affect a desired reduction in sized of the individualsecond phase infectious waste volumes dispersed in the anolyte;

l. membrane is ion-selective or semi-permeable (i.e., microporousplastic, ceramic, sintered glass frit, etc.).;

m. with the possible impression of an AC voltage upon the DC voltage toretard the formation of cell performance limiting surface films on theelectrode; and

n. external air is introduced through an air sparge into the catholytereservoir where oxygen contained in the air oxidizes nitrogen compoundsproduced by the cathode reactions (this is necessary only when nitrogencompounds can occur in the catholyte).

12. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. each of the oxidizing species has normal valence states (i.e.,reduced form of redox couple) and higher valence oxidizing states andfurther comprising creating the higher valence oxidizing states (i.e.,oxidized form of redox couple)of the oxidizing species by stripping andreducing electrons off normal valence state species in theelectrochemical cell;

b. using species that are usable in alkaline solutions since oxidationpotentials of redox reactions producing hydrogen ions are inverselyrelated to pH which reduces the electrical power required to destroy theinfectious waste;

c. further oxidizing species, and attacking specific organic moleculeswith the oxidizing species while operating at temperatures sufficientlylow so as to preventing the formation of dioxins and furans;

d. a perbromate for treating medical sharps as identified under thedefinition of infectious waste hereto referred;

e. energizing the electrochemical cell at a potential level sufficientto form the oxidized form of the redox couple having the highestoxidation potential in the anolyte;

f. lower the temperature (e.g. between 0° C. and room temperature) ofthe anolyte with the heat exchanger before it enters the electrochemicalcell to enhance the generation of the oxidized form of the anion redoxcouple mediator; and

g. raise the temperature of the anolyte (to the range ˜20 °C. to 80° C.)entering the anolyte reaction chamber with the heat exchanger to affectthe desired chemical reactions at the desired rates following thelowering of the temperature of the anolyte entering the electrochemicalcell.

13. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. the oxidizing species are one or more Type I isopolyanions (i.e.,complex anion redox couple mediators) containing tungsten, molybdenum,vanadium, niobium, tantalum, or combinations thereof as addenda atoms inaqueous solution and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral or alkalineaqueous solution;

b. the oxidizing species are one or more Type I heteropolyanions formedby incorporation into the aforementioned isopolyanions, as heteroatoms,any of the elements listed in Table II, either singly or in combinationthereof in the aqueous solutions and the electrolyte is an acid,neutral, or alkaline aqueous solution;

c. the oxidizing species are one or more of any heteropolyanionscontaining at least one heteroatom type (i.e., element) contained inboth Table I and Table II in the aqueous solutions and the electrolyteis an acid, neutral, or alkaline aqueous solution;

d. the oxidizing species are combinations of anion redox couplemediators from any or all of the previous four subparagraphs (13a.,13b., 13c., 13d);

e. the oxidizing species are higher valence state of species found insitu for destroying the infectious waste material; and

f. the electrolyte is an acid, neutral, or alkaline aqueous solution.

14. The apparatus of paragraph 10, further comprising:

a. the aqueous solution is chosen from acids such as but not limited tonitric acid, sulfuric acid, or phosphoric acid; alkalines such as butnot limited to of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide; or neutralelectrolytes such as but not limited to sodium or potassium nitrates,sulfates, or phosphates;

b. with an ion-selective or semi-permeable (i.e., microporous plastic,ceramic, sintered glass frit, etc.) membrane for separating the anolyteportion and the catholyte portion while allowing hydrogen or hydroniumion passage from the anolyte to the catholyte;

c. oxidation potentials of redox reactions producing hydrogen ions areinversely related to pH;

d. the infectious waste is liquid waste;

e. the infectious waste is solid waste;

f. the infectious waste is a combination of liquids and solids andnon-infectious waste; and

g. oxidizing species may be interchanged in a preferred embodimentwithout changing equipment.

15. The apparatus of paragraph 10, further comprising:

a. a anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(b,c) and buffer tank 20 housing thebulk of the anolyte portion and the foraminous EG Basket 3;

a) a anolyte reaction chamber 5 a housing the bulk of the anolyteportion;

b) a anolyte reaction chamber 5 d and buffer tank 20 housing the bulk ofthe anolyte portion;

c) an input pump 10 is attached to the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a toenter liquid infectious waste into the anolyte reaction chamber 5 a;

d) a spray head 4(a) and a stream head 4(b) attached to the tubingcoming from the electrochemical cell 25 that inputs the anolytecontaining the oxidizer into the anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c)and buffer tank 20 in such a manner as to promote mixing of the incominganolyte with the anolyte already in the anolyte reaction chambers(s)5(a,b,c);

e) a anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(b,c) houses a foraminous EG Basket 3with a top that holds the contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and material with the infectious waste in theelectrolyte;

f) a hinged lid 1 attached to the anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c)allowing insertion of instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterial into the anolyte portion as liquid, solid, or a mixture ofliquids and solids of infectious waste;

g) the lid 1 contains an locking latch 76 to secure the anolyte reactionchamber(s) 5(a,b,c) during operation;

h) a suction pump 8 is attached to buffer tank 20 to pump anolyte to theanolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(c,d);

i) an input pump 10 to pump anolyte from the anolyte reaction chamber(s)5(c,d) back into the buffer tank 20; and

k. an air pump 32 to pump off gases from the anolyte reaction chamber(s)5(c,d) back into the buffer tank 20 for further oxidation.

16. The apparatus of paragraph 10, further comprising:

a. an ultraviolet source 11 connected to the anolyte reaction chamber(s)5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 and decomposing hydrogen peroxide and ozoneinto hydroxyl free radicals therein and increasing efficiency of the MEOprocess by recovering energy through the oxidation of the infectiouswaste materials in the anolyte chamber by these secondary oxidizers;

b. an ultrasonic source 9 connected to the anolyte reaction chamber(s)5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 for augmenting secondary oxidation processesby heating the hydrogen peroxide containing electrolyte to produceextremely short lived and localized conditions of 4800° C. and 1000atmospheres pressure within the anolyte to dissociate hydrogen peroxideinto hydroxyl free radicals thus increasing the oxidation processes;

c. an ultrasonic energy 9 source connected into the anolyte reactionchamber(s) 5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 for irradiating cell membranes ininfectious waste materials by momentarily raising temperature within thecell membranes and causing cell membrane fail and rupture thus creatinggreater exposure of cell contents to oxidizing species in the anolyte;

d. the use of ultrasonic energy for mixing material in the anolyte, viathe ultrasonic energy source 9, to induce microscopic bubble implosionwhich is used to affect a desired reduction in sized of the individualsecond phase infectious waste volumes and disperse throughout theanolyte;

e. a mixer 7 for stirring the anolyte connected to the anolyte reactionchamber(s) 5(a,b,c) and the buffer tank 20;

f. a CO₂ vent 14 for releasing CO₂ atmospherically;

g. an inorganic compounds removal and treatment system 15 connected tothe anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 is usedshould there be more than trace amount of chlorine, or other precipitateforming anions present in the infectious waste being processed, therebyprecluding formation of unstable oxycompounds (e.g., perchlorates,etc.);

h. a gas cleaning system 16 comprises scrubber/absorption columns;

i. the condenser 13 connected to the anolyte reaction chamber(s)5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20;

j) non-condensable incomplete oxidation products (e.g., low molecularweight organics, carbon monoxide, etc.) are reduced to acceptable levelsfor atmospheric release by a gas cleaning system 16;

k. gas cleaning system 16 is not a necessary component of the MEOapparatus for the destruction of most types of infectious waste;

l. when the gas cleaning system 16 is incorporated into the MEOapparatus, the anolyte off-gas is contacted in a gas cleaning system 16wherein the non-condensable from the condenser 13 are introduced intothe lower portion of the gas cleaning system 16 through a flowdistribution system and a small side stream of freshly oxidized anolytedirect from the electrochemical cell 25 is introduced into the upperportion of the column, this results in the gas phase continuouslyreacting with the oxidizing mediator species as it rises up the columnpast the down flowing anolyte;

m. external drain 12, for draining to the organic compound removalsystem 17 and the inorganic compounds removal and treatment system 15,and for draining the anolyte system;

n. organic compounds recovery system 17 is used to recover a) organicmaterials that are benign and do not need further treatment, and b)organic materials that is used in the form they have been reduced andthus would be recovered for that purpose;

o. small thermal control units 21 and 22 are connected to the flowstream to heat or cool the anolyte to the selected temperature range;

p. anolyte is circulated into the anolyte reaction chamber(s) 5(a,b,c,d)and buffer tank 20 through the electrochemical cell 25 by pump 19 on theanode 26 side of the membrane 27;

q. a flush(s) 18 for flushing the anolyte and catholyte systems;

r. filter 6 is located at the base of the anolyte reaction chambers5(a,b,c,d) and buffer tank 20 to limit the size of the solid particlesto approximately 1 mm in diameter;

s. membrane 27 in the electrochemical cell 25 separates the anolyteportion and catholyte portion of the electrolyte;

t. electrochemical cell 25 is energized by a DC power supply 29, whichis powered by the AC power supply 30;

u. DC power supply 29 is low voltage high current supply usuallyoperating below 4V DC but not limited to that range;

v. AC power supply 30 operates off a typical 110v AC line for thesmaller units and 240v AC for the larger units;

w. electrolyte containment boundary is composed of materials resistantto the oxidizing electrolyte (e.g., stainless steel, PTFE, PTFE linedtubing, glass, etc.); and

-   -   x. an electrochemical cell 25 connected to the anolyte reaction        chamber(s) 5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20.        17. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. in the anolyte reaction chambers 5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 is theaqueous acid, alkali, or neutral salt electrolyte and mediated oxidizerspecies solution in which the oxidizer form of the mediator redox coupleinitially may be present or may be generated electrochemically afterintroduction of the contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and materials and application of DC power 29 to theelectrochemical cell 25;

b. the contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, andmaterial are introduced when the anolyte is at room temperature,operating temperature or some optimum intermediate temperature;

c. DC power supply 29 provides direct current to an electrochemical cell25;

d. pump 19 circulates the anolyte portion of the electrolyte and theinfectious waste material is rapidly oxidized at temperatures below 100°C. and ambient pressure;

e. in-line filter 6 prevents solid particles large enough to clog theelectrochemical cell 25 flow paths from exiting this reaction chambers5(a,b,c,d) and buffer tank 20;

f. residue is pacified in the form of a salt and may be periodicallyremoved through the Inorganic Compound Removal and Treatment System 15and drain outlets 12;

g. electrolyte may be changed through this same plumbing forintroduction into the reaction chambers 5(a,b,c) and buffer tank 20 and31;

h. the process operates at low temperature and ambient atmosphericpressure and does not generate toxic compounds during the destruction ofthe infectious waste, making the process indoors compatible;

i. the system is scalable to a unit large for a large industrialapplication; and

j. CO₂ oxidation product from the anolyte system A is vented out the CO₂vent 14.

18. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. an anolyte recovery system 41 connected to the catholyte pump (43);

b. a thermal control unit 45 connected to the catholyte reservoir forvarying the temperature of the catholyte portion;

c. a catholyte reservoir 31 connected to the cathode portion of theelectrochemical cell;

d. bulk of the catholyte is resident in the catholyte reaction chamber31;

e. catholyte portion of the electrolyte flows into a catholyte reservoir31;

f. an air sparge 37 connected to the catholyte reservoir 31 forintroducing air into the catholyte reservoir 31;

g. an anolyte recovery system 41 for capturing the anions and forreintroducing the anions into the anolyte chamber(s) 5(a,b,c) and buffertank 20 or disposal from the catholyte electrolyte;

h. an off gas cleaning system 39 for cleaning gases before release intothe atmosphere connected to the catholyte reservoir 31;

i. an atmospheric vent 47 for releasing gases into the atmosphereconnected to the off gas cleaning system 39;

j. cleaned gas from the off gas cleaning system 39 is combined withunreacted components of the air introduced into the system anddischarged through the atmospheric vent 47;

k. a catholyte reservoir 31 has a screwed top 33 (shown in FIG. 1A),which allow access to the reservoir 31 for cleaning and maintenance byservice personnel;

l. a mixer 35 for stirring the catholyte connected to the catholytereservoir 31;

m. a catholyte pump 43 for circulating catholyte back to theelectrochemical cell 25 connected to the catholyte reservoir 31;

n. a drain 12 for draining catholyte;

o. a flush 18 for flushing the catholyte system;

p. an air sparge 37 connected to the housing for introducing air intothe catholyte reaction chamber 31;

q. catholyte portion of the electrolyte is circulated by pump 43 throughthe electrochemical cell 25 on the cathode 28 side of the membrane 27;

r. small thermal control units 45 and 46 are connected to the catholyteflow stream to heat or cool the catholyte to the selected temperaturerange;

s. contact of the oxidizing gas with the catholyte electrolyte may beenhanced by using conventional techniques for promoting gas/liquidcontact by a ultrasonic vibration 48, mechanical mixing 35, etc.;

t. operating the electrochemical cell 25 at higher than normal membrane27 current densities (i.e., above about 0.5 amps/cm²) will increase therate of infectious waste destruction, but also result in increasedmediator ion transport through the membrane into the catholyte;

u. optional anolyte recovery system 41 is positioned on the catholyteside;

v. systems using non-nitric acid catholytes may also require airsparging to dilute and/or remove off-gas such as hydrogen;

w. some mediator oxidizer ions may cross the membrane 27 and this optionis available if it is necessary to remove them through the anolyterecovery system 41 to maintain process efficiency or cell operability,or their economic worth necessitates their recovery;

x. using the anolyte recovery system 41 the capitol cost of expandingthe size of the electrochemical cell 25 can be avoided; and

y. operating the electrochemical cell 25 at higher than normal membranecurrent density (i.e., above about 0.5 amps per centimeter squared)improves economic efficiency.

19. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. operator runs the MEO Apparatus (FIG. 1A) and FIG. 5( b) by using theMEO Controller depicted in FIG. 2 MEO Controller;

b. controller 49 with microprocessor is connected to a monitor 51 and akeyboard 53;

c. operator inputs commands to the controller 49 through the keyboard 53responding to the information displayed on the monitor 51;

d. controller 49 runs a program that sequences the steps for theoperation of the MEO apparatus;

e. program has pre-programmed sequences of standard operations that theoperator follows or he chooses his own sequences of operations;

f. controller 49 allows the operator to select his own sequences withinlimits that assure a safe and reliable operation;

g. controller 49 sends digital commands that regulates the electricalpower (AC 30 and DC 29) to the various components in the MEO apparatus:pumps 19 and 43, mixers 7 and 35, thermal controls 21, 22, 45, 46, heatexchangers 23 and 24, ultraviolet sources 11, ultrasonic sources 9 and48, CO₂ vent 14, air sparge 37, and electrochemical cell 25;

h. controller receives component response and status from thecomponents;

i. controller sends digital commands to the sensors to access sensorinformation through sensor responses;

j. sensors in the MEO apparatus provide digital information on the stateof the various components;

k. sensors measure flow rate 59, temperature 61, pH 63, CO₂ venting 65,degree of oxidation 67, air sparge sensor 69, etc; and

l. controller 49 receives status information on the electrical potential(voltmeter 57) across the electrochemical cell or individual cells if amulti-cell configuration and between the anode(s) and referenceelectrodes internal to the cell(s) 25 and the current (ammeter 55)flowing between the electrodes within each cell.

20. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. preferred embodiment, MEO System Model 5.b is sized for use in asmall to mid-size application; other preferred embodiments havedifferences in the external configuration and size but are essentiallythe same in internal function and components as depicted in FIGS. 1B,1D, and 1E;

b. preferred embodiment in FIG. 3 comprises a housing 72 constructed ofmetal or high strength plastic surrounding the electrochemical cell 25,the electrolyte and the foraminous EG Basket 3;

c. AC power is provided to the AC power supply 30 by the power cord 78;

d. monitor screen 51 is incorporated into the housing 72 for displayinginformation about the system and about the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and material being treated;

e. control keyboard 53 is incorporated into the housing 72 for inputtinginformation into the system;

f. monitor screen 51 and the control keyboard 53 may be attached to thesystem without incorporating them into the housing 72;

g. system model 5.b has a control keyboard 53 for input of commands anddata;

h. monitor screen 51 to display the systems operation and functions;

i. status lights 73 for on, off and standby, are located above thekeyboard 53 and monitor screen 51;

j. in a preferred embodiment, status lights 73 are incorporated into thehousing 72 for displaying information about the status of thesterilization and/or disinfection of the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials;

k. air sparge 37 is incorporated into the housing 72 to allow air to beintroduced into the catholyte reaction chamber 31 below the surface ofthe catholyte;

l. a CO₂ vent 14 is incorporated into the housing 72 to allow for CO₂release from the anolyte reaction chamber housed within;

m. in a preferred embodiment, the housing includes means for cleaningout the MEO infectious waste treatment system, including a flush(s) 18and drain(s) 12 through which the anolyte and catholyte will pass;

n. the preferred embodiment further comprises an atmospheric vent 47facilitating the releases of gases into the atmosphere from thecatholyte reaction chamber 31;

o. hinged lid 1 is opened and the contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials are deposited in the EG Basket 3 inthe chamber 5 b;

p. lid stop 2 keeps lid opening controlled; and

q. hinged lid 1 is equipped with a locking latch 76 that is operated bythe controller 49.

21. The apparatus of paragraph 10, wherein:

a. MEO apparatus is contained in the housing 72;

b. MEO system is started 81 by the operator engaging the ‘ON’ button 74on the control keyboard 53;

c. system controller 49, which contains a microprocessor, runs theprogram that controls the entire sequence of operations 82;

d. monitor screen 51 displays the steps of the process in the propersequence;

e. status lights 73 on the panel provide the status of the MEO apparatus(e.g. on, off, ready, standby);

f. lid 1 is opened and the contaminated instruments, equipment,glassware, utensils, and materials are placed 83 in the anolyte reactionchamber 5 b in EG Basket 3 as a liquid, solid, or a mixture of liquidsand solids infectious waste, whereupon the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials are retained and theliquid infectious waste portion flows through the EG Basket 3 and intothe anolyte;

g. locking latch 76 is activated after the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and materials are placed in EG Basket 3;

h. pumps 19 and 43 are activated which begins circulation 85 of theanolyte 87 and catholyte 89, respectively;

i. once the electrolyte circulation is established throughout thesystem, the mixers 7 and 35 begin to operate 91 and 93;

j. depending upon infectious waste characteristics (e.g., reactionkinetics, heat of reaction, etc.) it may be desirable to introduce thecontaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils, and materialsinto a room temperature or cooler system with little or none of themediator redox couple in the oxidizer form;

k. once flow is established the thermal controls units 21, 22, 45, and46 are turned on 95/97, initiating predetermined anodic oxidation andelectrolyte heating programs;

l. the electrochemical cell 25 is energized 94 (by cell commands 56) tothe electric potential 57 and current 55 density determined by thecontroller program;

m. by using programmed electrical power and electrolyte temperatureramps it is possible to maintain a predetermined infectious wastedestruction rate profile such as a relatively constant reaction rate asthe more reactive infectious waste components are oxidized, thusresulting in the remaining infectious waste becoming less and lessreactive, thereby requiring more and more vigorous oxidizing conditions;

n. the ultrasonic sources 9 and 48 and ultraviolet systems 11 areactivated 99 and 101 in the anolyte reaction chambers 5(a,b,c) andbuffer tank 20 and catholyte reaction chamber 31 if those options arechosen in the controller program;

o. CO₂ vent 14 is activated 103 to release CO₂ from the infectious wasteoxidation process in the anolyte reaction chambers 5(a,b,c) and buffertank 20;

-   -   p. air sparge 37 and atmospheric vent 47 are activated 105 in        the catholyte system;    -   q. progress of the destruction process is monitored in the        controller (oxidation sensor 67) by various cell voltages and        currents 55, 57 (e.g., open circuit, anode vs. reference        electrode, ion specific electrodes, etc,) as well as monitoring        CO₂, CO, and O₂ gas 65 composition for CO₂, CO and oxygen        content;    -   r. infectious waste is being decomposed into water and CO₂ the        latter being discharged 103 out of the CO₂ vent 14;    -   s. air sparge 37 draws air 105 into the catholyte reservoir 31,        and excess air is discharged out the atmospheric vent 47;    -   t. when the oxidation sensor 67 determine the desired degree of        infectious waste destruction (sterilization or disinfection) has        been obtained 107, the system goes to standby 109;    -   u. MEO apparatus as an option may be placed in a standby mode        with contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware, utensils,        and materials being added as it is generated throughout the day        and the unit placed in full activation during non-business        hours; and    -   v. system operator executes system shutdown 111 using the        controller keyboard 53.

TABLE I SIMPLE ANION REDOX COUPLES MEDIATORS SUB GROUP GROUP ELEMENTVALENCE SPECIES SPECIFIC REDOX COUPLES I A None B Copper (Cu) +2 Cu⁻²(cupric) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species HCuO₂ (bicuprite) +3 Species/+4Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3 Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻ (cuprate) Cu₂O₃ (sesquioxide)+4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag) +1 Ag⁺ (argentous) +1 Species/+2, +3Species AgO⁻ (argentite) +2 Species/+3 Species +2 Ag⁻² (argentic) AgO(argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺ (argentyl) Ag₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺(aurous) +1 Species/+3, +4 Species +3 Au⁺³ (auric) +3 Species/+4 SpeciesAuO⁻ (auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻ (auric acid) HAuO₃ ⁻ (monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻²(diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³ (triaurate) Au₂O₃ (auric oxide) Au(OH)₃ (aurichydroxide) +4 AuO₂ (peroxide) II A Magnesium (Mg) +2 Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2Species/+4 Species +4 MgO₂ (peroxide) Calcium (Ca) +2 Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4Species +4 CaO₂ (peroxide) Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4SrO₂ (peroxide) Barium (Ba) +2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 BaO₂(peroxide) II B Zinc (Zn) +2 Zn⁺² (zincic) +2 Species/+4 Species ZnOH⁺(zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻ (bizincate) ZnO₂ ⁻² (zincate) +4 ZnO₂ (peroxide)Mercury (Hg) +2 Hg⁺² (mercuric) +2 Species/+4 Species Hg(OH)₂ (mercurichydroxide) HHgO₂ ⁻ (mercurate) +4 HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₃BO₃(orthoboric acid) +3 Species/+4.5, +5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻, HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³(orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻ (metaborate) H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇ ⁻/B₄O₇⁻² (tetraborates) B₂O₄ ⁻² (diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂O₅ ⁻(diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻/BO₂ ⁻.H₂ O (perborate) Thallium (TI) +1 TI⁺¹(thallous) +1 Species/+3 or +3.33 Species +3 TI⁺³ (thallic) +3Species/+3.33 Species TIO⁺, TIOH⁺², TI(OH)₂ ⁺ (thallyl) TI₂O₃(sesquioxide) TI(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +3.33 TI₃O₅ (peroxide) B See RareEarths and Actinides IV A Carbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃ (carbonic acid) +4Species/+5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻ (bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻² (carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆(perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄ (permonocarbonic acid) Germanium (Ge) +4H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/+6 Species HGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴ (germanic) GeO₄ ⁻⁴ H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉(tetragermanic acid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁ (pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻(bipentagermanate) +6 Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻² (pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴(stannic) +4 Species/+7 Species HSnO₃ ⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ⁻² (stannate)SnO₂ (stannic oxide) Sn(OH)₄ (stannic hydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate)Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺² (plumbous) +2, +2.67, +3 Species/+4 Species HPbO₂ ⁻(biplumbite) PbOH⁺ PbO₂ ⁻² (plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄(plumbo-plumbic oxide) +3 Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴(plumbic) +2, +2.67, +3 Species/+4 Species PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) HPbO₃⁻ (acid metaplumbate) PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) B Titanium+4 TiO⁺² (pertitanyl) +4 Species/+6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂(dioxide) +6 TiO₂ ⁺² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (acid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻²(pertitanate) TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium (Zr) +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4Species/+5, +6, +7 Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅(pentoxide) +6 ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium (Hf) +4 Hf⁺⁴(hafnic) +4 Species/+6 Species HfO⁺² (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V ANitrogen +5 HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7HNO₄ (pernitric acid) Phosphorus (P) +5 H₃PO₄ (orthophosphoric acid) +5Species/+6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (monoorthophosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphosphoric acid)H₄P₂O₇ (pryophosphoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphosphoric acid) H₆P₄O₁₃(tetraphosphoric acid) A Phosphorus (P) +6 H₄P₂O₈ (perphosphoric acid)+5 Species/+6, +7 Species +7 H₃PO₅ (monoperphosphoric acid) Arsenic (As)+5 H₃AsO₄ (ortho-arsenic acid) +5 Species/+7 species H₂AsO₄ ⁻ (monoortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄ ⁻³(tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ⁺ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth(Bi) +3 Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/+3.5, +4, +5 Species BiOH⁺²(hydroxybismuthous) BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium (V) +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/+7, +9 Species(See also POM H₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) Complex Anion H₂VO₄ ⁻(orthovanadate) Mediators) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate) HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate)VO₄ ⁻³ (orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇ (pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃(metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7 VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/+4, +6Species CrOH⁺², Cr(OH)₂ ⁺ (chromyls) +4 Species/+6 Species CrO₂ ⁻, CrO₃⁻³ (chromites) Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂(dioxide) Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acidchromate) CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum (Mo) +6HMoO₄ ⁻ (bimolybhate) +6 Species/+7 Species (See also POM MoO₄ ⁻²(molydbate) Complex Anion MoO₃ (molybdic trioxide) Mediators) H₂MoO₄(molybolic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate) Tungsten (W) +6 WO₄ ⁻²(tungstic) +6 Species/+8 Species (See also POM WO₃ (trioxide) ComplexAnion H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) Mediators) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅(pertungstic acid) VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) −1 Species/+1,+3, +5, +7 Species +1 HClO (hypochlorous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species ClO⁻ (hypochlorite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species +3 HClO₂ (chlorousacid) +5 Species/+7 Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid)ClO₃ ⁻ (chlorate) +7 HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻, HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³,Cl₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (perchlorates) V B Niobium (Nb) +5 NbO₃ ⁻ (metaniobate) +5Species/+7 species (See also POM NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Complex AnionNb₂O₅ (pentoxide) Mediators) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate)Nb₂O₇ (perniobic oxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum (Ta) +5 TaO₃ ⁻(metatantalate) +5 species/+7 species (See also POM TaO₄ ⁻³(orthotanatalate) Complex Anion Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide) Mediators) HTaO₃(tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ ⁻ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate) HTaO₄.H₂O(pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, +8 Species HSO₄ ⁻ (bisulfate) SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfate) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium (Se) +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/+7 Species HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium (Te) +6 H₂TeO₄(telluric acid) +6 species/+7 species HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium (Po) +2 Po⁺²(polonous) +2, +4 species/+6 Species +4 PoO₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃(peroxide) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7Species +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species BrO⁻(hypobromitee) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species +3 HBrO₂ (bromous acid) +5Species/+7 Species BrO2⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromic acid) BrO₃ ⁻(bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻, HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅ ⁻³, Br₂O₉ ⁻⁴(prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodide) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7 Species +1HIO (hypoiodus acid) +3 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species IO⁻ (hypoiodite) +3Species/+5, +7 Species +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5 Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻(iodite) +5 HIO₃ (iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodate) +7 HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄⁻, HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) B Manganese (Mn) +2 Mn⁺²(manganeous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6, +7 Species HMnO₂ ⁻ (dimanganite) +3Species/+4, +6, +7 Species +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic) +4 Species/+6, +7 Species+4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +6 Species/+7 Species +6 MnO₄ ⁻² (manganate) +7 MnO₄ ⁻(permanganate) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe) +2 Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3,+4, +5, +6 Species HFeO₂ ⁻ (dihypoferrite) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species+3 Fe⁺³, FeOH⁺², Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ (ferric) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species FeO₂ ⁻(ferrite) +5 Species/+6 Species +4 FeO⁺² (ferryl) FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite)+5 FeO₂ ⁺ (perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻² (ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺²(cobalous) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species HCoO₂ ⁻ (dicobaltite) +3 Species/+4Species +3 Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃ (cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide)H₂CoO₃ (cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni) +2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3,+4, +6 Species NiOH⁺ +3 Species/+4, +6 Species HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4Species/+6 Species NiO₂ ⁻² (nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃(nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide) +6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) Period 5Ruthenium (Ru) +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3, +4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species +3 Ru⁺³+3 Species/+4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species Ru₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+5,+6, +7, +8 Species Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5 Species/+6, +7, +8 Species +4Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +6 Species/+7, +8 Species RuO₂ (ruthenic dioxide) +7Species/+8 Species Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenic hydroxide) +5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6RuO₄ ⁻² (ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁺² (ruthenyl) RuO₃ (trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻(perruthenate) +8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₅ ⁻ (diperruthenate)RuO₄ (ruthenium tetroxide) Rhodium (Rh) +1 Rh⁺ (hyporhodous) +1Species/+2, +3, +4, +6 Species +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species +3 Rh⁺³ (rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species Rh₂O₃ (sesquioxide)+4 Species/+6 Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodic oxide) Rh(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 RhO₄⁻² (rhodate) RhO₃ (trioxide) Palladium +2 Pd⁺² (palladous) +2Species/+3, +4, +6 Species PdO₂ ⁻² (palladite) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species+3 Pd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PdO₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂(dioxide) Pd(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 PdO₃ (peroxide) Period 6 Iridium (Ir)+3 Ir⁺³ (iridic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species Ir₂O₃ (iridium sesquioxide)+4 Species/+6 Species Ir (OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4 IrO₂ (iridicoxide) Ir (OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate) IrO₃ (iridiumperoxide) Platinum (Pt) +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/+4, +6Species +3 Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PtO₃ ⁻²(palatinate) PtO⁺² (platinyl) Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB RareCerium (Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species earths Ce₂O₃(cerous oxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴,Ce(OH)⁺³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁻², Ce(OH)₃ ⁺ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃(peroxide) Praseodymium (Pr) +3 Pr⁺³ (praseodymous) +3 species/+4species Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic)PrO₂ (dioxide) Neodymium +3 Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 NdO₂ (peroxide) Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4Species Tb₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂ (peroxide) Actinides Thorium (Th) +4Th⁺⁴ (thoric) +4 Species/+6 Species ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻ (thorate) +6ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium (U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6 Species/+8Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅ ⁻, UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates) UO₄(peroxide) Neptunium (Np) +5 NpO₂ ⁺ (hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, +8Species Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl)NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄ (peroxide) Plutonium (Pu) +3 Pu⁺³(hypoplutonous) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4Species/+5, +6 Species PuO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺(hypoplutonyl) Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂ ⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide)Americium (Am) +3 Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +4 Am⁺⁴ (americous) AmO₂(dioxide) Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5 AmO₂ ⁺ (hypoamericyl) Am₂O₅ (pentoxide)+6 AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃ (peroxide)

TABLE II ELEMENTS PARTICIPATING AS HETEROATOMS IN HETEROPOLYANIONCOMPLEX ANION REDOX COUPLE MEDIATORS GROUP SUB GROUP ELEMENT I A Lithium(Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu), Silver(Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca),Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury(Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), and Yttrium(Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge),Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), and Hafnium (Hf)V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb), andBismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta) VI A Sulfur(S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr), Molybdenum (Mo),and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl), Bromine (Br), andIodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), and Rhenium (Re) VIIIPeriod 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni) Period 5 Ruthenium(Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6 Osmium (Os), Iridium(Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All

1. A process for treating and oxidizing infectious waste, comprisingcirculating anions of mediator oxidizing species in an electrolytethrough an electrochemical cell and affecting anodic oxidation ofreduced forms of reversible redox couples into oxidized forms,contacting the ions with the infectious waste in an anolyte portion ofthe electrolyte in a primary oxidation process, involving super oxidizerions, having an oxidation potential above a threshold value of 1.7 voltsat 1 molar, 25° C. and pH1 are present there is a free radical oxidizerdriven secondary oxidation process, adding energy from an energy sourceto the anolyte portion and augmenting the secondary oxidation processes,breaking down hydrogen peroxide in the anolyte portion into hydroxylfree radicals, and increasing an oxidizing effect of the secondaryoxidation processes.
 2. The process of claim 1, further comprisingintroducing catalyst additives to the electrolyte and therebycontributing to kinetics of the mediated electrochemical processes whilekeeping the additives from becoming directly involved in the oxidizingof the infectious waste materials.
 3. The process of claim 1, whereinthe oxidizing species are identified in Table I, and wherein each of thespecies has normal valence states and higher valence oxidizing statesand further comprising creating the higher valence oxidizing states ofthe oxidizing species by stripping electrons from normal valence statespecies in the electrochemical cell.
 4. The process of claim 1, furthercomprising using an alkaline solution, aiding decomposing of theinfectious materials derived from base promoted ester hydrolysis,saponification of fatty acids, and forming water soluble alkali metalsalts of the fatty acids and glycerin in a process similar to theproduction of soap from animal fat by introducing it into a hot aqueouslye solution.
 5. The process of claim 1, further comprising using analkaline anolyte solution for absorbing CO₂ from the oxidizing of theinfectious waste materials and forming bicarbonate/carbonate solutions,which subsequently circulate through the electrochemical cell, producingpercarbonate oxidizers.
 6. The process of claim 1, further comprisingimpressing an AC voltage upon the direct current voltage for retardingformation of cell performance limiting surface films on the electrode.7. The process of claim 1, wherein the catholyte contains HNO₃ or NO₃salts, and further comprising adding oxygen to the catholyte portion. 8.The process of claim 1, further comprising adjusting temperature between0° C. and temperature of the anolyte portion before it enters theelectrochemical cell for enhancing generation of oxidized forms of themediator, and adjusting the temperature between 0° C. and below theboiling temperature of the anolyte portion entering the anolyte reactionchamber affecting desired chemical reactions at desired rates.
 9. Theprocess of claim 1, further comprising introducing an ultrasonic energyinto the anolyte portion, rupturing cell membranes in the infectiouswaste materials by momentarily raising local temperature within the cellmembranes with the ultrasonic energy to above several thousand degrees,and causing cell membrane failure.
 10. The process of claim 1, furthercomprising the evolving of oxygen from the anode is feed to a hydrogenfuel apparatus to increase the percentage oxygen available from theambient air.
 11. The process of claim 1, further comprising introducingultraviolet energy into the anolyte portion and decomposing hydrogenperoxide and ozone into hydroxyl free radicals therein, therebyincreasing efficiency of the process by converting products of electronconsuming parasitic reactions, ozone and hydrogen peroxide, into viablefree radical secondary oxidizers without consumption of additionalelectrons.
 12. The process of claim 1, further comprising adding asurfactant to the anolyte portion for promoting dispersion of theinfectious waste materials or intermediate stage reaction productswithin the aqueous solution when the infectious waste materials orreaction products are not water-soluble and tend to form immisciblelayers.
 13. The process of claim 1, further comprising attackingspecific organic molecules with the oxidizing species while operating atlow temperatures and preventing formation of dioxins and furans.
 14. Theprocess of claim 1, further comprising breaking down the infectiouswaste materials into organic compounds and attacking the organiccompounds using as the mediator simple and/or complex anion redox couplemediators or inorganic free radicals and generating organic freeradicals.
 15. The process of claim 1, further comprising raising normalvalence state mediator anions to a higher valence state by stripping themediator anions of electrons in the electrochemical cell, whereinoxidized forms of weaker redox couples present in the mediator areproduced by similar anodic oxidation or reaction with oxidized forms ofstronger redox couples present and the oxidized species of the redoxcouples oxidize molecules of the infectious waste materials and arethemselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they are oxidizedby the aforementioned mechanisms and the redox cycle continues.
 16. Theprocess of claim 1, wherein the adding energy comprises irradiating theanolyte portion with ultraviolet energy.
 17. The process of claim 1,wherein the adding energy comprises introducing an ultrasonic energysource into the anolyte portion, irradiating cell membranes in theinfectious waste, momentarily raising local temperature within the cellmembranes, causing cell membrane failure, and creating greater exposureof cell contents to oxidizing species in the anolyte portion.
 18. Theprocess of claim 1, wherein the mediator oxidizing species are selectedfrom the group consisting of (a.) simple anions redox couple mediatorsdescribed in Table I; (b.) Type I isopolyanions formed by Mo, W, V, Nb,Ta, or mixtures thereof; (c.) Type I heteropolyanions formed byincorporation into the isopolyanions if any of the elements listed inTable II (heteroatoms) either singly or in thereof, or (d.)heteropolyanions containing at least one heteroatom type elementcontained in both Table I and Table II or combinations of the mediatoroxidizing species from any or all of(a.), (b.), (c.) and (d.) TABLE ISimple Ion Redox Couples SUB SPECIES GROUP GROUP ELEMENT VALENCE SPECIESREDOX COUPLES I A None B Copper (Cu) +2 Cu⁻² (cupric) +2 Species/+3, +4Species; HCuO₂ (bicuprite) +3 Species/+4 Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻ (cuprate) Cu₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag)+1 Ag⁺ (argentous) +1 Species/+2, +3 Species; AgO⁻ (argentite) +2Species/+3 Species +2 Ag⁻² (argentic) AgO (argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺(argentyl) Ag₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺ (aurous) +1 Species/+3,+4 Species; +3 Au⁺³ (auric) +3 Species/+4 Species AuO⁻ (auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻(auric acid) H₂AuO₃ ⁻ (monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻² (diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³(triaurate) Au₂O₃ (auric oxide) Au(OH)₃ (auric hydroxide) +4 AuO₂(peroxide) II A Magnesium (Mg) +2 Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2 Species/+4 Species+4 MgO₂ (peroxide) Calcium (Ca) +2 Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 CaO₂(peroxide) Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 SrO₂ (peroxide)Barium (Ba) +2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 BaO₂ (peroxide) II B Zinc(Zn) +2 Zn⁺² (zincic) +2 Species/+4 Species ZnOH⁺(zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻(bizincate) ZnO₂ ⁻² (zincate) +4 ZnO₂ (peroxide) Mercury (Hg) +2 Hg⁺²(mercuric) +2 Species/+4 Species Hg(OH)₂ (mercuric hydroxide) HHgO₂ ⁻(mercurate) +4 HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₃BO₃ (orthoboric acid) +3Species/+4.5, +5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻ , HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³ (orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻(metaborate) H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇ ⁻/B₄O₇ ⁻² (tetraborates)B₂O₄ ⁻² (diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂O₅ ⁻ (diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻/BO₂ ⁻•H₂O (perborate) Thallium (Tl) +1 Tl⁺¹ (thallous) +1 Species/+3 or+3.33 Species; +3 Tl⁺³ (thallic) +3 Species/+3.33 Species TlO⁺ , TlOH⁺²,Tl(OH)₂ ⁺ (thallyl) Tl₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Tl(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +3.33 Tl₃O₅(peroxide) B See Rare Earths and Actinides IV A Carbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃(Carbonic acid) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻ (bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻²(carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆ (perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄ (permonocarbonicacid) Germanium (Ge) +4 H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/+6 SpeciesHGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃ ⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴ (germanic) GcO₄ ⁻⁴H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉ (tetragermanic acid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁(pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻ (bipentagermanate) +6 Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻²(pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴ (stannic) +4 Species/+7 Species HSnO₃⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ⁻² (stannate) SnO₂ (stannic oxide) Sn(OH)₄ (stannichydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate) Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺² (plumbous) +2,+2.67, +3 Species/ HPbO₂ ⁻ (biplumbite) +4 Species PbOH⁺ PbO₂ ⁻²(plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄ (plumbo-plumbic oxide) +3Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) IV A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴ (plumbic) +2, +2.67, +3Species/ PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) +4 Species HPbO₃ ⁻ (acid metaplumbate)PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) IV B Titanium +4 TiO⁺²(pertitanyl) +4 Species/+6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂ (dioxide) +6TiO₂ ⁺² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (acid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻² (pertitanate)TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium (Zr) +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4 Species/+5, +6, +7Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium (Hf) +4 Hf⁺⁴ (hafnic) +4Species/+6 Species HfO⁺² (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V A Nitrogen +5HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7 HNO₄(pernitirc acid) Phosphorus (P) +5 H₃PO₄ (orthophosphoric acid) +5Species/+6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (monoortho- phosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphospahoricacid) H₄P₂O₇ (pryophos- phoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphos- phoric acid)H₆P₄O₁₃ (tetraphos- phoric acid) V A Phosphorous (P) +6 H₄P₂O₈ (perphos-+5 Species/+6, +7 Species phoric acid) +7 H₃PO₅ (monoperphosphoric acid)V A Arsenic (As) +5 H₃AsO₄ (ortho-arsenic acid) +5 Species/+7 speciesH₂AsO₄ ⁻ (mono ortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄ ⁻³(tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ⁺ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth(Bi) +3 Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/+3.5, BiOH⁺² (hydroxybismuthous)+4, +5 Species BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium (V) +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/+7, +9 SpeciesH₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) H₂VO₄ ⁻ (orthovanadate) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate)HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₄ ⁻³ (orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇(pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃ (metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9 VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) V B Nicobium (Nb) +5 NbO₃ ⁻(metaniobate) +5 Species/+7 species NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Nb₂O₅(pentoxide) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate) Nb₂O₇ (perniobicoxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum (Ta) +5 TaO₃ ⁻ (metatantalate) +5species/+7 species TaO₄ ⁻³ (orthotanatalate) Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide) HTaO₃(tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ ⁻ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate) HTaO₄•H₂O(pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄(sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, HSO₄ ⁻ (bisulfate) +8Species SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfate) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium (Se) +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/+7 Species HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium (Te) +6 H₂TeO₄(telluric acid) +6 species/+7 species HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium (Po) +2 Po⁺²(polonous) +2, +4 species/+6 Species +4 PoP₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃(peroxide) VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species;CrOH⁺², Cr(OH)₂ ⁺ +4 Species/+6 Species (chromyls) CrO₂ ⁻ , CrO₃ ⁻³(chromites) Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂(dioxide) Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acidchromate) CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum (Mo) +6HMoO₄ ⁻ (bimolybhate) +6 Species/+7 Species MoO₄ ⁻² (molydbate) MoO₃(molybdic trioxide) H₂MoO₄ (molybolic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate)Tungsten (W) +6 WO₄ ⁻² tungstic) +6 Species/+8 Species WO₃ (trioxide)H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅ (pertungstic acid)VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7 Species+1 HClO (hypochlorous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7, Species; ClO⁻(hypochlorite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HClO₂ (chlorous acid) +5Species/+7 Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid) ClO₃ ⁻(chlorate) +7 HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻ , HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³, Cl₂O₉⁻⁴ (perchlorates) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1, +3,+5, +7 Species; +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species; BrO⁻ (hypobromites) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HBrO₂(bromous acid) +5 Species/+7 Species BrO2⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromicacid) BrO₃ ⁻ (bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻ , HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅⁻³, Br₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodine) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5,+7 Species; +1 HIO (hypoiodus acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; IO⁻(hypoiodite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻ (iodite) +5 HIO₃ (iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodite) +7HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄ ⁻ , HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) BManganese (Mn) +2 Mn⁺² (manganeous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6, +7 HMnO₂ ⁻(dimanganite) Species; +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic) +3 Species/+4 Species, +6, +7Species; +4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +4 Species/+6, +7 Species; +6 MnO₄ ⁻²(manganate) +6 Species/+7 Species +7 MnO₄ ⁻ (permanganate) VIII Peri-Iron (Fe) +2 Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +5, +6 od 4 HFeO₂(dihypoferrite) Species; +3 Fe⁺³ (ferric) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Fe(OH)⁺²Species; Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ FeO₂ ⁻² (ferrite) VIII Peri- Iron (Fe) +4 FeO⁺²(ferryl) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; +5 od 4 FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite)Species; +5 Species/+6 Species +5 FeO₂ ⁺ (perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻²(ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺² (cobalous) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species;HCoO₂ ⁻ (dicobaltitc) +3 Species/+4 Species +3 Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃(cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide) H₂CoO₃ (cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni)+2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; NiOH⁺ +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4 Species/+6 Species NiO₂ ⁻²(nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃ (nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide)+6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) VIII Peri- Ruthenium (Ru) +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3,+4, +5, +6, +7, od 5 +3 Ru⁺³ +8 Species; +3 Species/+4, +5, Ru₂O₃(sesquioxide) +6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Species/ Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5,+6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +5 Species/+6, +7, +8 Species;RuO₂ (ruthenic dioxide) +6 Species/+7, +8 Species; Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenichydroxide) +7 Species/+8 Species +5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 RuO₄ ⁻²(ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁺² (ruthenyl) RuO₃ (trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻ (perruthenate)+8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₃ ⁻ (diperruthenate) RuO₄ (rutheniumtetroxide) Rhodium (Rh) +1 Rh⁺ (hyporhodous) +1 Species/+2, +3, +4, +6Species; +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; +3 Rh⁺³(rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; Rh₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodic oxide) Rh(OH)₄(hydroxide) +6 RhO₄ ⁻² (rhodate)RhO₃ (trioxide) Palladium +2 Pd⁺² (palladous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species; PdO₂ ⁻² (palladite) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; +3 Pd₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PdO₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂(dioxide) Pd(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 PdO₃ (peroxide) VIII Peri- Iridium (Ir)+3 Ir⁺³ (iridic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; od 6 Ir₂O₃ (iridiumsesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ir(OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4 IrO₂(iridic oxide) Ir(OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate) IrO₃(iridium peroxide) Platinum (Pt) +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; +3 Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PtO₃ ⁻²(palatinate) PtO⁺² (platinyl) Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB RareCerium (Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; earths Ce₂O₃(cerous oxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴,Ce(OH)³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁺², Ce(OH)₃ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃(peroxide) Praseody- +3 Pr⁺² (praseodymous) +3 species/+4 species mium(Pr) Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic) PrO₂(dioxide) Neodymium +3 Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4NdO₂ (peroxide) Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Tb₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂ (peroxide) IIIB Acti- Thorium (Th) +4 Th⁺⁴(thoric) +4 Species/+6 Species nides ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻ (thorate) +6ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium (U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6 Species/+8Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅ ⁻ , UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates) UO₄(peroxide) Neptunium (Np) +5 NpO₂ ⁺ (hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, +8Species; Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl)NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄ (peroxide) Plutonium (Pu) +3 Pu⁺³(hypoplutonous) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species; +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4Species/+5, +6 Species; PuO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺(hypoplutonyl) Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂ ⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide)Americium (Am) +3 Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species;+4 Am⁺⁴ (americous) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; AmO₂ (dioxide) +5Species/+6 Species Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5 AmO₂ ⁺ (hypoamericyl) Am₂O₅(pentoxide) +6 AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃ (peroxide)

TABLE II Elements Participating as Heteroatoms in HeteropolyanionComplex Anion Redox Couple Mediators SUB- GROUP GROUP ELEMENT I ALithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu),Silver (Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium(Ca), Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), andMercury (Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), andYttrium (Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium(Ge), Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), andHafnium (Hf) V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony(Sb), and Bismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta)VI A Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr),Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),Bromine (Br), and Iodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), andRhenium (Re) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni)Period 5 Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All.


19. The process of claim 1, further comprising using oxidizer speciesthat are found in situ in the infectious waste to be decomposed, bycirculating the infectious waste-anolyte mixture trough theelectrochemical cell where in an oxidized form of an in situ reversibleredox couple is formed by anodic oxidizing or reacting with an oxidizedform of a more powerful redox couple added to the anolyte and anodicallyoxidized in the electrochemical cell, thereby destroying the infectiouswaste material.
 20. The process of claim 1, further comprising using analkaline electrolyte selected from a group consisting of NaOH or KOH andcombinations thereof, with the mediator oxidizing species, wherein areduced form of a mediator redox couple has sufficient solubility insaid electrolyte for allowing desired oxidation of the infectious wastematerial.
 21. The process of claim 1, wherein the oxidation potential ofredox reactions of the mediator oxidizing species and infectious wastemolecules producing hydrogen ions are inversely proportional toelectrolyte pH, and thus with a selection of a mediator redox coupleincreasing the electrolyte pH reduces the electric potential required,thereby reducing electric power consumed per unit mass of infectiouswaste destroyed.
 22. The process of claim 1, wherein the electrolyte isan aqueous solution chosen from acids, alkalines, and neutral, acid andneutral, and alkaline and neutral electrolytes.
 23. The process of claim1, wherein the adding energy comprises using ultrasonic energy andinducing microscopic bubble expansion and implosion for reducing size ofinfectious waste volumes dispersed in the anolyte.
 24. The process ofclaim 1, further comprising interchanging the mediator oxidizing specieswithout changing equipment, and wherein the electrolyte is an acid,neutral or alkaline aqueous solution.
 25. The process of claim 1,wherein the treating and oxidizing infectious waste comprises treatingand oxidizing infectious waste from military ships, submarines,destroyers, cruisers and carriers.
 26. The process of claim 1, whereinthe treating and oxidizing infectious waste comprises treating andoxidizing infectious waste from commercial ships, cruise ships, tankers,cargo ships, fishing boats, recreational craft and houseboats.
 27. Theprocess of claim 1, further comprising separating the anolyte portionand a catholyte portion of the electrolyte with a hydrogen or hydroniumion-permeable membrane, microporous polymer, porous ceramic or glass fitmembrane.
 28. The process of claim 1, further comprising electricallyenergizing the electrochemical cell at a potential level sufficient forforming the oxidized forms of redox couples having highest oxidizingpotential in the anolyte, introducing contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and infectious waste materials into theanolyte portion, forming reduced forms of one or more reversible redoxcouples by contacting with oxidizable molecules, the reaction with whichoxidizes the oxidizable material with the concomitant reduction of theoxidized form of the reversible redox couples to their reduced form, andwherein the adding energy comprises providing an ultrasonic sourceconnected to the anolyte for augmenting secondary oxidation processes bymomentarily heating the hydrogen peroxide in the electrolyte to 4800° C.at 1000 atmospheres thereby dissociating the hydrogen peroxide intohydroxyl free radicals thus increasing the oxidizing processes.
 29. Theprocess of claim 28, further comprising oxidation potentials of redoxreactions producing hydrogen ions are inversely related to pH.
 30. Theprocess of claim 1, wherein the process is performed at a temperaturefrom slightly above 0° C. to slightly below the boiling point of theelectrolyte.
 31. The process of claim 30, wherein the temperature atwhich the process is performed is varied.
 32. The process of claim 1,wherein the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and infectious waste materials comprisestreating and oxidizing solid infectious waste.
 33. The process of claim1, wherein the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and infectious waste materials comprisestreating and oxidizing liquid infectious waste.
 34. The process of claim1, wherein the sterilizing and disinfecting contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and infectious waste materials comprisestreating and oxidizing a combination of solid and liquid infectiouswaste.
 35. The process of claim 1, further comprising requiring removingand treating precipitates resulting from combinations of the oxidizingspecies and other species released from the infectious waste duringdestruction.
 36. The process of claim 1, further comprising a catholyteportion of the electrolyte, and wherein the anolyte and catholyteportions of electrolyte are independent of one another, and compriseaqueous solutions of acids, alkali or neutral salt.
 37. The process ofclaim 1, further comprising separating a catholyte portion of theelectrolyte from the anolyte portion with a membrane, operating theelectrochemical cell at a current density of about 0.5 amp or more persquare centimeter across the membrane, and near a limit over which thereis the possibility that metallic anions may leak through the membrane insmall quantities, and recovering the metallic anions, thus allowing agreater rate of destruction of infectious waste materials in the anolyteportion.
 38. The process of claim 1, wherein the catholyte solutionfurther comprises an aqueous solution and the electrolyte in thesolution is composed of acids, alkali or neutral salts of strong acidsand bases, and further comprising adding oxygen to this solution whenHNO₃ or NO₃ ⁻ can occur in the catholyte, controlling concentration ofelectrolyte in the catholyte to maintain conductivity of the catholyteportion desired in the electrochemical cell, providing mechanical mixingand/or ultrasonic energy induced microscopic bubble formation, andimplosion for vigorous mixing in the catholyte solution for oxidizingthe nitrous acid and small amounts of nitrogen oxides NO_(x),introducing air into the catholyte portion for promoting the oxidizingof the nitrous acid and the small amounts of NO_(x), and diluting anyhydrogen produced in the catholyte portion before releasing the air andhydrogen.
 39. The process of claim 1, further comprising feedingevolving hydrogen to an apparatus that uses hydrogen as a fuel. 40.Apparatus for treating and oxidizing infectious waste materialscomprising an electrochemical cell, an aqueous electrolyte disposed inthe electrochemical cell, a semi permeable membrane, microporousmembrane, porous ceramic or glass frit membrane disposed in theelectrochemical cell for separating the cell into anolyte and catholytechambers and separating the anolyte and catholyte portions, electrodesfurther comprising an anode and a cathode disposed in theelectrochemical cell respectively in the anolyte and catholyte chambersand in the anolyte and catholyte portions of the electrolyte, a powersupply connected to the anode and the cathode for applying a directcurrent voltage between the anolyte and the catholyte portions of theelectrolyte, and oxidizing of the infectious waste materials in theanolyte portion with a mediated electrochemical oxidation (MEO) processwherein the anolyte portion further comprises a mediator in aqueoussolution for producing reversible redox couples used as oxidizingspecies and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral or alkaline aqueoussolution, wherein the mediator oxidizing species are selected from thegroup consisting of (a.) simple ion redox couples described in Table Ias below; (b.) Type I isopolyanions complex anion redox couples formedby incorporation of elements in Table I or mixtures thereof as addendaatoms; (c.) Type I heteropolyanions complex anion redox couples formedby incorporation into Type I isopolyanions as heteroatoms any elementselected from the group consisting of the elements listed in Table IIeither singly or in combination thereof, or (d.) heteropolyanionscomplex anion redox couples containing at least one heteroatom typeelement contained in both Table I and Table II below or (e.)combinations of the mediator oxidizing species from any or all of(a.),(b.), (c.), and (d.) TABLE I Simple Ion Redox Couples SPECIES REDOXGROUP SUB GROUP ELEMENT VALENCE SPECIES COUPLES I A None B Copper (Cu)+2 Cu⁻² (cupric) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species; HCuO₂ (bicuprite) +3Species/+4 Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3 Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻(cuprate) Cu₂ O₃(sesquioxide) +4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag) +1 Ag⁺(argentous) +1Species/+2, +3 Species; AgO⁻(argentitc) +2 Species/+3 Species +2 Ag⁻²(argentic) AgO (argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺(argentyl) Ag₂O₃ (sesquioxide)Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺(aurous) +1 Species/+3, +4 Species; +3 Au³ (auric) +3Species/+4 Species AuO⁻(auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻(auric acid) H₂AuO₃⁻(monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻² (diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³ (triaurate) Au₂O₃ (auricoxide) Au(OH)₃ (auric hydroxide) +4 AuO₂ (peroxide) II A Magnesium +2Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2 Species/+4 Species (Mg) +4 MgO² (peroxide) Calcium +2Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species (Ca) +4 CaO₂ (peroxide) Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2Species/+4 Species +4 SrO² (peroxide) Barium (Ba) +2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4Species +4 BaO₂ (peroxide) II B Zinc(Zn) +2 Zn⁺² (zincic) +2 Species/+4Species ZnOH⁺(zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻ (bizincate) +4 ZnO₂ ⁻² (peroxide) Mercury+2 Hg⁺² (mercuric) +2 Species/+4 Species (Hg) Hg (OH)₂ (mercurichydroxide) HHgO₂ ⁻ (mercurate) +4 HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₂BO₃(orthoboric acid) +3 Species/+4.5, +5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻ , HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³(orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻(metaborate) H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇/B₄O₇ ⁻²(tetraborates) B₂O₄ ⁻² (diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂ O₅ ⁻(diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻ /BO₂ ⁻•H₂O (perborate) Thallium +1 TI⁺¹ (thallous)+1 Species/+3 or +3.33 (TI) Species +3 TI⁺³ (thallic) +3 Species/ +3.3 3Species TIO⁺, TIOH⁺², TI(OH)₂ ⁺ (thallyl) TI₂O₃ (sesquioxide) TI(OH)₃(hydroxide) +3.33 TI₃O₅ (peroxide) B See Rare Earths and Actinides IV ACarbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃ (cabonic acid) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻(bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻² (carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆ (perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄(permonocarbonic acid) Germanium +4 H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/+6Species (Ge) HGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃ ⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴ (germanic)GeO₄ ⁻⁴ H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉ (tetragermanic acid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁(pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻ (bipentagermanate) +6 Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻(pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴ (stannic) +4 Species/+7 Species HSnO₃⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ² (stannate) SnO₂ (stannic oxide) Sn(OH)₄ (stannichydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate) Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺² (plumbous) +2,+2.67, +3 Species/+4 Species HPbO₂ ⁻ (biplumbite) PbOH⁺ PbO₂ ⁻²(plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄ (plumbo-plumbic oxide) +3Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) IV A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴ (plumbic) +2, +2.67, +3Species/+4 Species PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) HPbO₃ ⁻ (acid metaplurnbate)PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) IV B Titanium +4 TiO²(pertitanyl) +4 Species/+6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂ (dioxide) +6TiO₂ ⁻² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (aid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻² (pertitanate)TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4 Species/+5, (Zr) +6, +7Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium +4 Hf⁺⁴ (hafnic) +4Species/ (Hf) +6 Species HfO₊₂ (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V A Nitrogen+5 HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7 HNO₄(pernitric acid) Phosphorus +5 H₃PO₄ +5 Species/ (orthophosphoric acid)(P) +6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (manoorthophosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphosphoric acid)H₄P₂O₇ (piyophosphoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphosphoric acid) H₆P₄O₁₃(tetraphosphoric acid) V A Phosphorus +6 H₄P₂O₃ +5 Species/(perphosphoric acid) (P) +6, +7 Species +7 H₃PO₅ (monoper- phosphoricacid) V A Arsenic (As) +5 H₃AsO₄ +5 Species/+7 species (ortho-arsenicacid) H₂AsO₄ ⁻ (mono ortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄⁻³ (tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ₊ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth+3 Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/ (Bi) +3.5, +4, +5 Species BiOH⁺²(hydroxybismuthous) BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/+7, (V) +9 SpeciesH₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) H₂VO₄ ⁻ (orthovanadate) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate)HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₄ ⁻³ (orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇(pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃ (metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9 VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) V B Niobium +5 NbO₃ ⁻(metaniobate) +5 Species/+7 species (Nb) NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Nb₂O₅(pentoxide) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate) Nb₂O₇ (perniobicoxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum +5 TaO₃ ⁻ (metatantalate) +5species/+7 species (Ta) TaO₄ ⁻³ (orthotanatalate) Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide)HTaO₃ (tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate)HTaO₄•H₂O (pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, +8 Species HSO₄ ⁻ (bisulfate) SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfitte) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/ +7 Species (Se) HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium +6 H₂TeO₄ (telluricacid) +6 species/+7 species (Te) HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium +2 Po⁺² (polonous)+2, +4 species/ (Po) +6 Species +4 PoO₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃ (peroxide)VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; CrOH⁺²,Cr(OH)₂ ⁺ +4 Species/+6 Species (chromyls) CrO₂ ⁻, CrO₃ ⁻³ (chromites)Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂ (dioxide)Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acid chromate)CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum +6 HMoO₄ ⁻(bimolybhate) +6 Specics/ +7 Species (Mo) MoO₄ ⁻² (molydbate) MoO₃(molybdic trioxide) H₂MoO₄ (molybalic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate)Tungsten +6 WO₄ ⁻² tungstic) +6 Species/ +8 Species (W) WO₃ (trioxide)H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅ (pextungstic acid)VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) +1 Species/ +3, +5, +7 Species +1HClO +1 Species/ +3, (hypochlorous acid) +5, +7 Species ClO⁻ +3 Species/+5, (hypochlorite) +7 Species +3 HClO₂ (chlorous acid) +5 Species/ +7Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid) ClO₃ ⁻ (chlorate) +7HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻, HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³, Cl₂O₉ ⁻⁴(perchlorates) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1; +3,+5, +7 Species; +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species; BrO⁻ (hypobromitee) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HBrO₂(bromous acid) +5 Species/+7 Species BrO₂ ⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromicacid) BrO₃ ⁻ (bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻, HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅⁻³, Br₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodide) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5,+7 Species; +1 HIO (hypoiodus acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; IO⁻(hypoiodite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻ (iodite) +5 HIO₃ (Iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodate) +7HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄ ⁻, HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) BManganese +2 Mn⁺² (manganeous) +2 Species/+3, (Mn) +4, +6, +7 Species;HMnO₂ ⁻ (dimanganite) +3 Species/+4, +6, +7 Species; +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic)+4 Species/+6, +7 Species; +4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +6 Species/+7 Species +6MnO₄ ⁻² (manganate) +7 MnO₄ ⁻ (permanganate) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe) +2Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3, HFeO₂ (dihypoferrite) +4, +5, +6 Species;+3 Fe⁺³ (ferric) +3 Species/+4, Fe(OH)⁺² +5, +6 Species; Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ FeO₂⁻² (ferrite) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe) +4 FeO⁺² (ferryl) +4 Species/ +5,+6 Species; FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite) +5 Species/ +6 Species +5 FeO₂ ⁺(perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻² (ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺² (cobalous) +2Species/ +3, +4 Species; HCoO₂ ⁻(dicobaltite) +Species/ +4 Species +3Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃ (cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide) H₂CoO₃(cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni) +2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species; NiOH⁺ +Species/ +4, +6 Species; HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4Species/ +6 Species NiO₂ ⁻² (nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃(nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide) +6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) VIII Period 5Ruthenium +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3, (Ru) +4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species; +3Ru⁺³ +3 Species/+4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species Ru₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4Species/ +5, +6, +7, +8 Species; Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5 Species/+6, +7,+8 Species; +4 Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +6 Species/ +7, +8 Species; RuO₂(ruthenic dioxide) +7 Species/ +8 Species Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenic hydroxide)+5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 RuO₄ ⁻² (ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁺² (ruthenyl) RuO₃(trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻ (perruthenate) +8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₅⁻ (diperruthenate) RuO₄ (ruthenium tetroxide) Rhodium +1 Rh⁺(hyporhodous) +1 Species/+2, (Rh) +3, +4, +6 Species; +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous)+2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; +3 Rh⁺³ (rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6Species; Rh₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodicoxide) Rh(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 RhO₄ ⁻² (rhodate) RhO₃ (trioxide)Palladium +2 Pd⁺² (palladous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; PdO₂ ⁻²(palladite) +3 Species/ +4, +6 Species; +3 Pd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4Species/ +6 Species +4 PdO₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂ (dioxide) Pd(OH)₄(hydroxide) +6 PdO₃ (peroxide) VIII Period 6 Iridium (Ir) +3 Ir⁺³(iridic) +3 Species/ +4, +6 Species; Ir₂O₃ (iridium sesquioxide) +4Species/ +6 Species Ir(OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4 IrO₂ (iridic oxide)Ir(OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate) IrO₃ (iridium peroxide)Platinum +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/ (Pt) +4, +6 Species; +3Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/ +6 Species +4 PtO₃ ⁻² (palatinate)Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB Rare Cerium (Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3Species/ earths +4, +6 Species; Ce₂O₃ (cerous oxide) +4 Species/ +6Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴, Ce(OH)⁺³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁺²,Ce(OH)₃ ⁺ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃ (peroxide) Praseodymium +3Pr⁺³ (praseodymous) +3 species/+4 (Pr) species Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide)Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic) PrO₂ (dioxide) Neodymium +3Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 NdO₂ (peroxide)Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Tb₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂(peroxide) IIIB Actinides Thorium (Th) +4 Th⁺⁴ (thoric) +4 Species/+6Species ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻ (thorate) +6 ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium(U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6 Species/+8 Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅⁻, UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates) UO₄ (peroxide) Neptunium +5 NpO₂ ⁺(hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, +8 Species; Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl) NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄(peroxide) Plutonium +3 Pu⁺³ (hypoplutonous) +3 Species/+4, (Pu) +5, +6Species; +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; PuO₂ (dioxide)+5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺ (hypoplutonyl) Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide) Americium +3 Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +3Species/+4, (Am) +5, +6 Species; +4 Am⁺⁴ (americous) +4 Species/+5, +6Species; AmO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5AmO₂ ⁺(hypoamericyl) Am₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃(peroxide)

TABLE II Elements Participating as Heteroatoms in HeteropolyanionComplex Anion Redox Couple Mediators SUB- GROUP GROUP ELEMENT I ALithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu),Silver (Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium(Ca), Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), andMercury (Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), andYttrium (Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium(Ge), Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), andHafnium (Hf) V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony(Sb), and Bismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta)VI A Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr),Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),Bromine (Br), and Iodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), andRhenium (Re) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni)Period 5 Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All

wherein the anolyte portion further comprises super oxidizers, ions withan oxidation potential above a threshold value of 1.7 volts at 1 molar,25° C. and pH 1, which generate inorganic free radicals in aqueoussolutions, for involving in a secondary oxidation process for producingoxidizers, and organic free radicals for aiding the process and breakingdown the infectious waste materials into simpler smaller molecularstructure organic compounds.
 41. The apparatus of claim 40, furthercomprising an ultrasonic source connected to the anolyte for augmentingsecondary oxidation processes by irradiating the anolyte fordissociating hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl free radicals and thusincreasing concentration of oxidizing species and rate of wastedestruction.
 42. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising use ofultrasonic energy, via the ultrasonic energy source communicating withthe anolyte for inducing microscopic bubble implosions to affect areduction in size of the individual second phase waste volumes dispersedin the anolyte.
 43. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising ananolyte reaction chamber holding most of the anolyte portion and aforaminous basket, a penetrator attached to the basket to puncturesolids increasing the exposed area, and further comprising an externalCO₂ vent connected to the reaction chamber for releasing CO₂ into theatmosphere, a hinged lid attached to the reaction chamber allowinginsertion of infectious waste into the anolyte portion as liquid, solid,or mixtures of Liquids and solids, an anolyte pump connected to thereaction chamber, an inorganic compounds removal and treatment systemconnected to the anolyte pump for removing chlorides, and otherprecipitate forming anions present in the infectious waste beingprocessed, thereby precluding formation of unstable oxycompounds. 44.The apparatus of claim 43, further comprising an off-gas cleaningsystem, comprising scrubber/absorption columns connected to the vent, acondenser connected to the anolyte reaction chamber, wherebynon-condensable incomplete oxidation products, low molecular weightorganics and carbon monoxide are reduced to acceptable levels foratmospheric release by the gas cleaning system, and wherein the anolyteoff-gas is contacted in the gas cleaning system wherein thenoncondensibles from the condenser are introduced into the lower portionof the gas cleaning system through a flow distribution system and asmall side stream of freshly oxidized anolyte direct from theelectrochemical cell is introduced into the upper portion of the column,resulting in a gas phase continuously reacting with the oxidizingmediator species as it rises up the column past the down flowinganolyte, and external drain, for draining to an organic compound removalsystem and the inorganic compounds removal and treatment system, and fordraining the anolyte system, wherein the organic compounds recoverysystem is used to recover biological materials that are benign and donot need further treatment, and biological materials tat will be used inthe form they have been reduced.
 45. The apparatus of claim 43, furthercomprising thermal control units connected to heat or cool the anolyteto a selected temperature range when anolyte is circulated into thereaction chamber through the electrochemical cell by pump on the anodechamber side of the membrane, a flush for flushing the anolyte, and afilter is located at the base of the reaction chamber to limit the sizeof exiting solid particles to approximately 1mm in diameter.
 46. Theapparatus of claim 40, wherein the direct current for theelectrochemical cell is provided by a DC power supply, which is poweredby an AC power supply, and wherein the DC power supply is low voltagehigh current supply operating at or below 10V DC.
 47. The apparatus ofclaim 40, further comprising an electrolyte containment boundarycomposed of infectious waste materials resistant to the oxidizingelectrolyte selected from a group consisting of stainless steel, PTFE,PTFE lined tubing, glass and ceramics, and combinations thereof.
 48. Theapparatus of claim 40, further comprising an anolyte recovery systemconnected to a catholyte pump, a catholyte reservoir connected to thecathode portion of the electrochemical cell, a thermal control unitconnected to the catholyte reservoir for varying the temperature of thecatholyte portion, a bulk of the catholyte portion being resident in acatholyte reservoir, wherein the catholyte portion of the electrolyteflows into a catholyte reservoir, and further comprising an air spargeconnected to the catholyte reservoir for introducing air into thecatholyte reservoir.
 49. The apparatus of claim 48, further comprisingan anolyte recovery system for capturing the anions and forreintroducing the anions into the anolyte chamber upon collection fromthe catholyte electrolyte, an off-gas cleaning system connected to thecatholyte reservoir for cleaning gases before release into theatmosphere, and an atmospheric vent connected to the off-gas cleaningsystem for releasing gases into the atmosphere, wherein cleaned gas fromthe off-gas cleaning system is combined with unreacted components of theair introduced into the system and discharged through the atmosphericvent
 47. 50. The apparatus of claim 48, further comprising a screwed topon the catholyte reservoir to facilitate flushing out the catholytereservoir, a mixer connected to the catholyte reservoir for stirring thecatholyte, a catholyte pump connected to the catholyte reservoir forcirculating catholyte back to the electrochemical cell, a drain fordraining catholyte, a flush for flushing the catholyte system, and anair sparge connected to the housing for introducing air into thecatholyte reservoir, wherein the catholyte portion of the electrolyte iscirculated by pump through the electrochemical cell on the cathode sideof the membrane, and wherein contact of oxidizing gas with the catholyteportion of the electrolyte is enhanced by promoting gas/liquid contactby mechanical and/or ultrasonic mixing.
 51. The apparatus of claim 40,wherein the electrochemical cell is operated at high membrane currentdensities above about 0.5 amps/cm² for increasing a rate of infectiouswaste destruction, also results in increased mediator ion transportthrough the membrane into the catholyte, and further comprising ananolyte recovery system positioned on the catholyte side, air spargingon the catholyte side to dilute and remove off-gas and hydrogen, whereinsome mediator oxidizer ions cross the membrane and are removed throughthe anolyte recovery system to maintain process efficiency or celloperability.
 52. The apparatus of claim 40, further comprising acontroller, a microprocessor, a monitor and a keyboard connected to thecell for inputting commands to the controller through the keyboardresponding to the information displayed on the monitor, a program in thecontroller sequencing the steps for operation of the apparatus, programhaving pre-programmed sequences of operations the operator follows orchooses other sequences of operations, the controller allows theoperator to select sequences within limits that assure a safe andreliable operation, the controller sends digital commands that regulateelectrical power to pumps, mixers, thermal controls, ultravioletsources, ultrasonic sources, CO₂ vents, air sparge, and theelectrochemical cell, the, controller receives component response andstatus from the components, the controller sends digital commands to thesensors to access sensor information through sensor responses, sensorsin the apparatus provide digital information on the state of components,sensors measure flow rate, temperature, pH, CO₂ venting, degree ofoxidation, and air sparging, the controller receives status informationon electrical potential across the electrochemical cell or individualcells in a multi-cell configuration and between the anodes and referenceelectrodes internal to the cells and the current flowing between theelectrodes within each cell.
 53. A infectious waste destruction system,comprising a housing constructed of metal or high strength plasticsurrounding an electrochemical cell, with electrolyte and a foraminousbasket, an AC power supply with a power cord, a DC power supplyconnected to the AC power supply, the DC power supply providing directcurrent to the electrochemical cell, a control keyboard for input ofcommands and data, a monitor screen to display the systems operation andfunctions, an anolyte reaction chamber with a basket, status lights fordisplaying information about the status of the treatment of theinfectious waste material, an air sparge for introducing air into acatholyte reservoir below a surface of a catholyte, a means incorporatedinto the housing to allow for CO₂ release from the anolyte reactionchamber, an atmospheric vent facilitating the releases of gases into theatmosphere from the catholyte reservoir, a hinged lid for opening anddepositing the infectious waste in the basket in the anolyte reactionchamber, a locking latch connected to the hinged lid, and in the anolytereaction chamber an aqueous acid, alkali, or neutral salt electrolyteand mediated oxidizer species solution in which an oxidizer form of amediator redox couple initially may be present or may be generatedelectrochemically after introduction of the infectious waste andapplication of DC power to the electrochemical cell.
 54. The system ofclaim 53, wherein the infectious waste is introduced when the anolyte isat room temperature, operating temperature or intermediate temperature,and the infectious waste material is rapidly oxidized at temperaturesbelow boiling point of anolyte at ambient pressure, and furthercomprising a pump circulating an anolyte portion of an electrolyte, anin-line filter preventing solid particles large enough to clogelectrochemical cell flow paths from exiting the reaction chamber, aninorganic compound removal and treatment system and drain outletsconnected to the anolyte reaction chamber, whereby residue is pacifiedin the form of a salt and may be periodically removed, and a removabletop connected to a catholyte reservoir allowing access to the reservoirfor cleaning and maintenance.
 55. The system of claim 53, wherein thesystem is room temperature or cooler with little or none of the mediatorredox couple in the oxidizer form, depending upon reaction kinetics,heat of reaction and similar waste characteristics.
 56. The system ofclaim 53, further comprising a membrane separating the anolyte portionand a catholyte portion of the electrolyte, wherein the membrane is anion-selective membrane, or semi permeable membrane, microporous polymermembrane, porous ceramic membrane, or glass fit.
 57. A infectious wasteoxidizing process, comprising an operator engaging an ‘ON’ button on acontrol keyboard, a system controller which contains a microprocessor,running a program and controlling a sequence of operations, a monitorscreen displaying process steps in proper sequence, status lights on thepanel providing status of the process, opening a lid and placing theinfectious waste in a basket as a liquid, solid, or a mixture of liquidsand solids, retaining a solid portion of the infectious waste andflowing a liquid portion through the basket and into an anolyte reactionchamber, activating a locking latch after the infectious waste is placedin the basket, activating pumps which begins circulating the anolyte anda catholyte, once the circulating is established throughout the system,operating mixers, once flow is established, turning on thermal controlunits, and initiating anodic oxidation and electrolyte heating programs,energizing an electrochemical cell to electric potential and currentdensity determined by the controller program, using programmedelectrical power and electrolyte temperature ramps for maintaining apredetermined infectious waste destruction rate profile as a relativelyconstant reaction rate as more reactive infectious waste components areoxidized, thus resulting in the remaining infectious waste becoming lessand less reactive, thereby requiring more and more vigorous oxidizingconditions, activating ultrasonic and ultraviolet systems in the anolytereaction chamber and catholyte reservoir, releasing CO₂ from theinfectious waste oxidizing process in the anolyte reaction chamber,activating air sparge and atmospheric vent in a catholyte system,monitoring progress of the process in the controller by cell voltagesand currents, monitoring CO_(2,) CO, and O₂ gas composition for CO_(2,)CO and oxygen content, decomposing the infectious waste into water andCO₂ ,the latter being discharged out of the CO₂ vent, air spargingdrawing air into a catholyte reservoir, and discharging excess air outof an atmospheric vent, determining with an oxidation sensor thatdesired degree of infectious waste destruction has been obtained,setting the system to standby, and executing system shutdown using thecontroller keyboard system operator.
 58. The process of claim 57,further comprising placing the system in a standby mode during the dayand adding infectious waste as it is generated throughout the day,placing the system in full activation during non-business hours,operating the system at low temperature and ambient atmospheric pressureand not generating toxic compounds during the destruction of theinfectious waste, making the process indoors compatible, scaling thesystem between units small enough for use by a single practitioner andunits large enough to replace hospital incinerators, releasing CO₂oxidation product from the anolyte system out through the CO₂ vent, andventing off-gas products from the catholyte reservoir through theatmospheric vent.
 59. The process of claim 57, further comprisingintroducing the infectious waste into a room temperature or coolersystem with little or none of the mediator redox couple in the oxidizerform, depending upon reaction kinetics, heat of reaction and similarinfectious waste characteristics.
 60. A process forsterilizing/disinfecting by treating and oxidizing infectious wastematerials on the contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and/or infectious waste materials comprising disposing anelectrolyte in an electrochemical cell, separating the electrolyte intoan anolyte portion and a catholyte portion with an ion-selectivemembrane, semipermeable membrane, microporous polymer, porous ceramic,or glass frit, applying a direct current voltage between the anolyteportion and the catholyte portion, placing the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or infectious waste materials in theanolyte portion, and oxidizing the infectious waste materials in theanolyte portion with a mediated electrochemical oxidation (MEO) process,wherein the anolyte portion further comprises oxidizing species as amediator in aqueous solution and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral oralkaline aqueous solution, and wherein the mediator oxidizing speciesare selected from the group consisting of(a.) simple ion redox couplesdescribed in Table I as below; (b.) Type I isopolyanions complex anionredox couples formed by incorporation of elements in Table I or mixturesthereof as addenda atoms; (c.) Type I heteropolyanions complex anionredox couples formed by incorporation into Type I isopolyanions asheteroatoms any element selected from the group consisting of theelements listed in Table II either singly or in combination thereof, or(d.) heteropolyanions complex anion redox couples containing at leastone heteroatom type element contained in both Table I and Table II belowor (e.) combinations of the mediator oxidizing species from any or allof (a.), (b.), (c.), and (d.) TABLE I Simple Ion Redox Couples SUBSPECIES GROUP GROUP ELEMENT VALENCE SPECIES REDOX COUPLES I A None BCopper (Cu) +2 Cu⁻² (cupric) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species; HCuO₂(bicuprite) +3 Species/+4 Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3 Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻(cuprate) Cu₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag) +1 Ag⁺(argentous) +1 Species/+2, +3 Species; AgO⁻ (argentite) +2 Species/+3Species +2 Ag⁻² (argentic) AgO (argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺ (argentyl) Ag₂O₃(sesquioxide) Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺ (aurous) +1 Species/+3, +4 Species; +3Au⁺³ (auric) +3 Species/+4 Species AuO⁻ (auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻ (auric acid)H₂AuO₃ ⁻ (monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻² (diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³ (triaurate) Au₂O₃(auric oxide) Au(OH)₃ (auric hydroxide) +4 AuO₂ (peroxide) II AMagnesium (Mg) +2 Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2 Species/+4 Species +4 MgO₂(peroxide) Calcium (Ca) +2 Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 CaO₂ (peroxide)Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 SrO₂ (peroxide) Barium (Ba)+2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 BaO₂ (peroxide) II B Zinc (Zn) +2 Zn⁺²(zincic) +2 Species/+4 Species ZnOH⁺(zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻ (bizincate) ZnO₂ ⁻²(zincate) +4 ZnO₂ (peroxide) Mercury (Hg) +2 Hg⁺² (mercuric) +2Species/+4 Species Hg(OH)₂ (mercuric hydroxide) HHgO₂ ⁻ (mercurate) +4HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₃BO₃ (orthoboric acid) +3 Species/+4.5,+5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻ , HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³ (orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻ (metaborate)H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇ ⁻/B₄O₇ ⁻² (tetraborates) B₂O₄ ⁻²(diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂O₅ ⁻ (diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻/BO₂⁻•H₂O (perborate) Thallium (Tl) +1 Tl⁺¹ (thallous) +1 Species/+3 or+3.33 Species; +3 Tl⁺³ (thallic) +3 Species/+3.33 Species TlO⁺ , TlOH⁺²,Tl(OH)₂ ⁺ (thallyl) Tl₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Tl(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +3.33 Tl₃O₅(peroxide) B See Rare Earths and Actinides IV A Carbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃(Carbonic acid) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻ (bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻²(carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆ (perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄ (permonocarbonicacid) Germanium (Ge) +4 H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/+6 SpeciesHGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃ ⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴ (germanic) GcO₄ ⁻⁴H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉ (tetragermanic acid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁(pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻ (bipentagermanate) +6 Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻²(pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴ (stannic) +4 Species/+7 Species HSnO₃⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ^(/−2) (stannate) SnO₂ (stannic oxide) Sn(OH)₄(stannic hydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate) Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺² (plumbous)+2, +2.67, +3 Species/ HPbO₂ ⁻ (biplumbite) +4 Species PbOH⁺ PbO₂ ⁻²(plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄ (plumbo-plumbic oxide) +3Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) IV A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴ (plumbic) +2, +2.67, +3Species/ PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) +4 Species HPbO₃ ⁻ (acid metaplumbate)PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) IV B Titanium +4 TiO⁺²(pertitanyl) +4 Species/+6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂ (dioxide) +6TiO₂ ⁺² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (acid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻² (pertitanate)TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium (Zr) +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4 Species/+5, +6, +7Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium (Hf) +4 Hf⁺⁴ (hafnic) +4Species/+6 Species HfO⁺² (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V A Nitrogen +5HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7 HNO₄(pernitirc acid) Phosphorus (P) +5 H₃PO₄ (orthophosphoric acid) +5Species/+6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (monoortho- phosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphospahoricacid) H₄P₂O₇ (pryophos- phoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphos- phoric acid)H₆P₄O₁₃ (tetraphos- phoric acid) V A Phosphorous (P) +6 H₄P₂O₈ (perphos-+5 Species/+6, +7 Species phoric acid) +7 H₃PO₅ (monoperphosphoric acid)V A Arsenic (As) +5 H₃AsO₄ (ortho-arsenic acid) +5 Species/+7 speciesH₂AsO₄ ⁻ (mono ortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄ ⁻³(tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ⁺ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth(Bi) +3 Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/+3.5, BiOH⁺² (hydroxybismuthous)+4, +5 Species BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium (V) +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/+7, +9 SpeciesH₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) H₂VO₄ ⁻ (orthovanadate) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate)HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₄ ⁻³ (orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇(pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃ (metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9 VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) V B Nicobium (Nb) +5 NbO₃ ⁻(metaniobate) +5 Species/+7 species NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Nb₂O₅(pentoxide) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate) Nb₂O₇ (perniobicoxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum (Ta) +5 TaO₃ ⁻ (metatantalate) +5species/+7 species TaO₄ ⁻³ (orthotanatalate) Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide) HTaO₃(tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ ⁻ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate) HTaO₄•H₂O(pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄(sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, HSO₄ ⁻ (bisulfate) +8 Species SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfate) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium (Se) +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/+7 Species HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium (Te) +6 H₂TeO₄(telluric acid) +6 species/+7 species HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium (Po) +2 Po⁺²(polonous) +2, +4 species/+6 Species +4 PoP₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃(peroxide) VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species;CrOH⁺², Cr(OH)₂ ⁺ +4 Species/+6 Species (chromyls) CrO₂ ⁻ , CrO₃ ⁻³(chromites) Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂(dioxide) Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acidchromate) CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum (Mo) +6HMoO₄ ⁻ (bimolybhate) +6 Species/+7 Species MoO₄ ⁻² (molydbate) MoO₃(molybdic trioxide) H₂MoO₄ (molybolic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate)Tungsten (W) +6 WO₄ ⁻² tungstic) +6 Species/+8 Species WO₃ (trioxide)H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅ (pertungstic acid)VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7 Species+1 HClO (hypochlorous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7, Species; ClO⁻(hypochlorite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HClO₂ (chlorous acid) +5Species/+7 Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid) ClO₃ ⁻(chlorate) +7 HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻ , HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³, Cl₂O₉⁻⁴ (perchlorates) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1, +3,+5, +7 Species; +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species; BrO⁻ (hypobromites) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HBrO₂(bromous acid) +5 Species/+7 Species BrO2⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromicacid) BrO₃ ⁻ (bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻ , HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅⁻³, Br₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodine) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5,+7 Species; +1 HIO (hypoiodus acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; IO⁻(hypoiodite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻ (iodite) +5 HIO₃ (iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodite) +7HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄ ⁻ , HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) BManganese (Mn) +2 Mn⁺² (manganeous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6, +7 HMnO₂ ⁻(dimanganite) Species; +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic) +3 Species/+4 Species, +6, +7Species; +4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +4 Species/+6, +7 Species; +6 MnO₄ ⁻²(manganate) +6 Species/+7 Species +7 MnO₄ ⁻ (permanganate) VIII Peri-Iron (Fe) +2 Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +5, +6 od 4 HFeO₂(dihypoferrite) Species; +3 Fe⁺³ (ferric) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Fe(OH)⁺²Species; Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ FeO₂ ⁻² (ferrite) VIII Peri- Iron (Fe) +4 FeO⁺²(ferryl) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; +5 od 4 FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite)Species; +5 Species/+6 Species +5 FeO₂ ⁺ (perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻²(ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺² (cobalous) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species;HCoO₂ ⁻ (dicobaltitc) +3 Species/+4 Species +3 Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃(cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide) H₂CoO₃ (cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni)+2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; NiOH⁺ +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4 Species/+6 Species NiO₂ ⁻²(nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃ (nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide)+6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) VIII Peri- Ruthenium (Ru) +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3,+4, +5, +6, +7, od 5 +3 Ru⁺³ +8 Species; +3 Species/+4, +5, Ru₂O₃(sesquioxide) +6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Species/ Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5,+6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +5 Species/+6, +7, +8 Species;RuO₂ (ruthenic dioxide) +6 Species/+7, +8 Species; Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenichydroxide) +7 Species/+8 Species +5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 RuO₄ ⁻²(ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁺² (ruthenyl) RuO₃ (trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻ (perruthenate)+8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₃ ⁻ (diperruthenate) RuO₄ (rutheniumtetroxide) Rhodium (Rh) +1 Rh⁺ (hyporhodous) +1 Species/+2, +3, +4, +6Species; +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; +3 Rh⁺³(rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; Rh₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodic oxide) Rh(OH)₄(hydroxide) +6 RhO₄ ⁻² (rhodate)RhO₃ (trioxide) Palladium +2 Pd⁺² (palladous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species; PdO₂ ⁻² (palladite) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; +3 Pd₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PdO₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂(dioxide) Pd(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 PdO₃ (peroxide) VIII Peri- Iridium (Ir)+3 Ir⁺³ (iridic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; od 6 Ir₂O₃ (iridiumsesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ir(OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4 IrO₂(iridic oxide) Ir(OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate) IrO₃(iridium peroxide) Platinum (Pt) +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; +3 Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PtO₃ ⁻²(palatinate) PtO⁺² (platinyl) Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB RareCerium (Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; earths Ce₂O₃(cerous oxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴,Ce(OH)³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁺², Ce(OH)₃ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃(peroxide) Praseody- +3 Pr⁺² (praseodymous) +3 species/+4 species mium(Pr) Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic) PrO₂(dioxide) Neodymium +3 Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4NdO₂ (peroxide) Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Tb₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂ (peroxide) IIIB Acti- Thorium (Th) +4 Th⁺⁴(thoric) +4 Species/+6 Species nides ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻ (thorate) +6ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium (U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6 Species/+8Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅ ⁻ , UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates) UO₄(peroxide) Neptunium (Np) +5 NpO₂ ⁺ (hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, +8Species; Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl)NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄ (peroxide) Plutonium (Pu) +3 Pu⁺³(hypoplutonous) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species; +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4Species/+5, +6 Species; PuO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺(hypoplutonyl) Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂ ⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide)Americium (Am) +3 Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species;+4 Am⁺⁴ (americous) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; AmO₂ (dioxide) +5Species/+6 Species Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5 AmO₂ ⁺ (hypoamericyl) Am₂O₅(pentoxide) +6 AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃ (peroxide)

TABLE II Elements Participating as Heteroatoms in HeteropolyanionComplex Anion Redox Couple Mediators SUB- GROUP GROUP ELEMENT I ALithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu),Silver (Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium(Ca), Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), andMercury (Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), andYttrium (Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium(Ge), Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), andHafnium (Hf) V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony(Sb), and Bismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta)VI A Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr),Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),Bromine (Br), and Iodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), andRhenium (Re) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni)Period 5 Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All

further comprising adding stabilizing compounds to the electrolyte forovercoming and stabilizing the short lifetime of oxidized forms ofhigher oxidation state species of the mediator, wherein the stabilizingcompounds are tellurate or periodate ions.
 61. A process forsterilizing/disinfecting by treating and oxidizing infectious wastematerials on the contaminated instruments, equipment, glassware,utensils, and/or infectious waste materials comprising disposing anelectrolyte in an electrochemical cell, separating the electrolyte intoan anolyte portion and a catholyte portion with an ion-selectivemembrane, semipermeable membrane, microporous polymer, porous ceramic,or glass frit, applying a direct current voltage between the anolyteportion and the catholyte portion, placing the contaminated instruments,equipment, glassware, utensils, and/or infectious waste materials in theanolyte portion, and oxidizing the infectious waste materials in theanolyte portion with a mediated electrochemical oxidation (MEG) process,wherein the anolyte portion further comprises oxidizing species as amediator in aqueous solution and the electrolyte is an acid, neutral oralkaline aqueous solution, and wherein the mediator oxidizing speciesare selected from the group consisting of(a.) simple ion redox couplesdescribed in Table I as below; (b.) Type I isopolyanions complex anionredox couples formed by incorporation of elements in Table I, ormixtures thereof as addenda atoms; (c.) Type I heteropolyanions complexanion redox couples formed by incorporation into Type I isopolyanions asheteroatoms any element selected from the group consisting of theelements listed in Table II either singly or in combination thereof, or(d.) heteropolyanions complex anion redox couples containing at leastone heteroatom type element contained in both Table I and Table II belowor (e.) combinations of the mediator oxidizing species from any or allof (a.), (b.), (c.), and (d.) TABLE I Simple Ion Redox Couples SUBSPECIES GROUP GROUP ELEMENT VALENCE SPECIES REDOX COUPLES I A None BCopper (Cu) +2 Cu⁻² (cupric) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species; HCuO₂(bicuprite) +3 Species/+4 Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3 Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻(cuprate) Cu₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag) +1 Ag⁺(argentous) +1 Species/+2, +3 Species; AgO⁻ (argentite) +2 Species/+3Species +2 Ag⁻² (argentic) AgO (argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺ (argentyl) Ag₂O₃(sesquioxide) Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺ (aurous) +1 Species/+3, +4 Species; +3Au⁺³ (auric) +3 Species/+4 Species AuO⁻ (auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻ (auric acid)H₂AuO₃ ⁻ (monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻² (diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³ (triaurate) Au₂O₃(auric oxide) Au(OH)₃ (auric hydroxide) +4 AuO₂ (peroxide) II AMagnesium (Mg) +2 Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2 Species/+4 Species +4 MgO₂(peroxide) Calcium (Ca) +2 Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 CaO₂ (peroxide)Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 SrO₂ (peroxide) Barium (Ba)+2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 BaO₂ (peroxide) II B Zinc (Zn) +2 Zn⁺²(zincic) +2 Species/+4 Species ZnOH⁺(zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻ (bizincate) ZnO₂ ⁻²(zincate) +4 ZnO₂ (peroxide) Mercury (Hg) +2 Hg⁺² (mercuric) +2Species/+4 Species Hg(OH)₂ (mercuric hydroxide) HHgO₂ ⁻ (mercurate) +4HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₃BO₃ (orthoboric acid) +3 Species/+4.5,+5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻ , HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³ (orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻ (metaborate)H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇ ⁻/B₄O₇ ⁻² (tetraborates) B₂O₄ ⁻²(diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂O₅ ⁻ (diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻/BO₂⁻•H₂O (perborate) Thallium (Tl) +1 Tl⁺¹ (thallous) +1 Species/+3 or+3.33 Species; +3 Tl⁺³ (thallic) +3 Species/+3.33 Species TlO⁺ , TlOH⁺²,Tl(OH)₂ ⁺ (thallyl) Tl₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Tl(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +3.33 Tl₃O₅(peroxide) B See Rare Earths and Actinides IV A Carbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃(Carbonic acid) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻ (bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻²(carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆ (perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄ (permonocarbonicacid) Germanium (Ge) +4 H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/+6 SpeciesHGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃ ⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴ (germanic) GcO₄ ⁻⁴H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉ (tetragermanic acid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁(pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻ (bipentagermanate) +6 Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻²(pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴ (stannic) +4 Species/+7 Species HSnO₃⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ^(/−2) (stannate) SnO₂ (stannic oxide) Sn(OH)₄(stannic hydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate) Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺² (plumbous)+2, +2.67, +3 Species/ HPbO₂ ⁻ (biplumbite) +4 Species PbOH⁺ PbO₂ ⁻²(plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄ (plumbo-plumbic oxide) +3Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) IV A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴ (plumbic) +2, +2.67, +3Species/ PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) +4 Species HPbO₃ ⁻ (acid metaplumbate)PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) IV B Titanium +4 TiO⁺²(pertitanyl) +4 Species/+6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂ (dioxide) +6TiO₂ ⁺² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (acid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻² (pertitanate)TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium (Zr) +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4 Species/+5, +6, +7Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium (Hf) +4 Hf⁺⁴ (hafnic) +4Species/+6 Species HfO⁺² (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V A Nitrogen +5HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7 HNO₄(pernitirc acid) Phosphorus (P) +5 H₃PO₄ (orthophosphoric acid) +5Species/+6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (monoortho- phosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphospahoricacid) H₄P₂O₇ (pryophos- phoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphos- phoric acid)H₆P₄O₁₃ (tetraphos- phoric acid) V A Phosphorous (P) +6 H₄P₂O₈ (perphos-+5 Species/+6, +7 Species phoric acid) +7 H₃PO₅ (monoperphosphoric acid)V A Arsenic (As) +5 H₃AsO₄ (ortho-arsenic acid) +5 Species/+7 speciesH₂AsO₄ ⁻ (mono ortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄ ⁻³(tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ⁺ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth(Bi) +3 Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/+3.5, BiOH⁺² (hydroxybismuthous)+4, +5 Species BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium (V) +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/+7, +9 SpeciesH₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) H₂VO₄ ⁻ (orthovanadate) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate)HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₄ ⁻³ (orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇(pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃ (metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9 VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) V B Nicobium (Nb) +5 NbO₃ ⁻(metaniobate) +5 Species/+7 species NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Nb₂O₅(pentoxide) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate) Nb₂O₇ (perniobicoxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum (Ta) +5 TaO₃ ⁻ (metatantalate) +5species/+7 species TaO₄ ⁻³ (orthotanatalate) Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide) HTaO₃(tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ ⁻ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate) HTaO₄•H₂O(pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄(sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, HSO₄ ⁻ (bisulfate) +8 Species SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfate) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium (Se) +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/+7 Species HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium (Te) +6 H₂TeO₄(telluric acid) +6 species/+7 species HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium (Po) +2 Po⁺²(polonous) +2, +4 species/+6 Species +4 PoP₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃(peroxide) VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species;CrOH⁺², Cr(OH)₂ ⁺ +4 Species/+6 Species (chromyls) CrO₂ ⁻ , CrO₃ ⁻³(chromites) Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂(dioxide) Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acidchromate) CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum (Mo) +6HMoO₄ ⁻ (bimolybhate) +6 Species/+7 Species MoO₄ ⁻² (molydbate) MoO₃(molybdic trioxide) H₂MoO₄ (molybolic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate)Tungsten (W) +6 WO₄ ⁻² tungstic) +6 Species/+8 Species WO₃ (trioxide)H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅ (pertungstic acid)VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7 Species+1 HClO (hypochlorous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7, Species; ClO⁻(hypochlorite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HClO₂ (chlorous acid) +5Species/+7 Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid) ClO₃ ⁻(chlorate) +7 HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻ , HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³, Cl₂O₉⁻⁴ (perchlorates) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1, +3,+5, +7 Species; +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species; BrO⁻ (hypobromites) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HBrO₂(bromous acid) +5 Species/+7 Species BrO2⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromicacid) BrO₃ ⁻ (bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻ , HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅⁻³, Br₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodine) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5,+7 Species; +1 HIO (hypoiodus acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; IO⁻(hypoiodite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻ (iodite) +5 HIO₃ (iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodite) +7HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄ ⁻ , HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) BManganese (Mn) +2 Mn⁺² (manganeous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6, +7 HMnO₂ ⁻(dimanganite) Species; +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic) +3 Species/+4 Species, +6, +7Species; +4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +4 Species/+6, +7 Species; +6 MnO₄ ⁻²(manganate) +6 Species/+7 Species +7 MnO₄ ⁻ (permanganate) VIII Peri-Iron (Fe) +2 Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +5, +6 od 4 HFeO₂(dihypoferrite) Species; +3 Fe⁺³ (ferric) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Fe(OH)⁺²Species; Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ FeO₂ ⁻² (ferrite) VIII Peri- Iron (Fe) +4 FeO⁺²(ferryl) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; +5 od 4 FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite)Species; +5 Species/+6 Species +5 FeO₂ ⁺ (perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻²(ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺² (cobalous) +2 Species/+3, +4 Species;HCoO₂ ⁻ (dicobaltitc) +3 Species/+4 Species +3 Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃(cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide) H₂CoO₃ (cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni)+2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; NiOH⁺ +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4 Species/+6 Species NiO₂ ⁻²(nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃ (nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide)+6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) VIII Peri- Ruthenium (Ru) +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3,+4, +5, +6, +7, od 5 +3 Ru⁺³ +8 Species; +3 Species/+4, +5, Ru₂O₃(sesquioxide) +6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Species/ Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5,+6, +7, +8 Species; +4 Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +5 Species/+6, +7, +8 Species;RuO₂ (ruthenic dioxide) +6 Species/+7, +8 Species; Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenichydroxide) +7 Species/+8 Species +5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 RuO₄ ⁻²(ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁺² (ruthenyl) RuO₃ (trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻ (perruthenate)+8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₃ ⁻ (diperruthenate) RuO₄ (rutheniumtetroxide) Rhodium (Rh) +1 Rh⁺ (hyporhodous) +1 Species/+2, +3, +4, +6Species; +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; +3 Rh⁺³(rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; Rh₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodic oxide) Rh(OH)₄(hydroxide) +6 RhO₄ ⁻² (rhodate)RhO₃ (trioxide) Palladium +2 Pd⁺² (palladous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species; PdO₂ ⁻² (palladite) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; +3 Pd₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PdO₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂(dioxide) Pd(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 PdO₃ (peroxide) VIII Peri- Iridium (Ir)+3 Ir⁺³ (iridic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; od 6 Ir₂O₃ (iridiumsesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ir(OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4 IrO₂(iridic oxide) Ir(OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate) IrO₃(iridium peroxide) Platinum (Pt) +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/+4,+6 Species; +3 Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 PtO₃ ⁻²(palatinate) PtO⁺² (platinyl) Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB RareCerium (Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species; earths Ce₂O₃(cerous oxide) +4 Species/+6 Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴,Ce(OH)³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁺², Ce(OH)₃ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃(peroxide) Praseody- +3 Pr⁺² (praseodymous) +3 species/+4 species mium(Pr) Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic) PrO₂(dioxide) Neodymium +3 Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4NdO₂ (peroxide) Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Tb₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂ (peroxide) IIIB Acti- Thorium (Th) +4 Th⁺⁴(thoric) +4 Species/+6 Species nides ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻ (thorate) +6ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium (U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6 Species/+8Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅ ⁻ , UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates) UO₄(peroxide) Neptunium (Np) +5 NpO₂ ⁺ (hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, +8Species; Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl)NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄ (peroxide) Plutonium (Pu) +3 Pu⁺³(hypoplutonous) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species; +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4Species/+5, +6 Species; PuO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺(hypoplutonyl) Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂ ⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide)Americium (Am) +3 Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +3 Species/+4, +5, +6 Species;+4 Am⁺⁴ (americous) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; AmO₂ (dioxide) +5Species/+6 Species Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5 AmO₂ ⁺ (hypoamericyl) Am₂O₅(pentoxide) +6 AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃ (peroxide)

TABLE II Elements Participating as Heteroatoms in HeteropolyanionComplex Anion Redox Couple Mediators SUB- GROUP GROUP ELEMENT I ALithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu),Silver (Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium(Ca), Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), andMercury (Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), andYttrium (Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium(Ge), Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), andHafnium (Hf) V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony(Sb), and Bismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta)VI A Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr),Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),Bromine (Br), and Iodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), andRhenium (Re) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni)Period 5 Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All

wherein the oxidizing agents are super oxidizers, and further comprisinggenerating inorganic free radicals in aqueous solutions from carbonate,azide, nitrite, nitrate, phosphite, phosphate, sulfite, sulfate,selenite, thiocyanate, chloride, and formate oxidizing species, whereinthe super oxidizers have an oxidation potential above a threshold valueof 1.7 volts at 1 molar, 25° C. and pH1.
 62. The process of claim 61,wherein the mediator oxidizing species are selected from one or more ofa group of Type I complex anion redox couple isopolyanion mediatorscontaining tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, niobium, tantalum, orcombinations thereof as addenda atoms in aqueous solution.
 63. Theprocess of claim 61, wherein the mediator oxidizing species are simpleions redox couple mediators described in Table I; Type I isopolyanionsformed by Mo, W, V, Nb, Ta, or mixtures thereof.
 64. Apparatus fortreating and oxidizing infectious waste materials comprising anelectrochemical cell, an aqueous electrolyte disposed in theelectrochemical cell, a semi permeable membrane, microporous membrane,porous ceramic or glass frit membrane disposed in the electrochemicalcell for separating the cell into anolyte and catholyte chambers andseparating the anolyte and catholyte portions, electrodes furthercomprising an anode and a cathode disposed in the electrochemical cellrespectively in the anolyte and catholyte chambers and in the anolyteand catholyte portions of the electrolyte, a power supply connected tothe anode and the cathode for applying a direct current voltage betweenthe anolyte and the catholyte portions of the electrolyte, and oxidizingof the infectious waste materials in the anolyte portion with a mediatedelectrochemical oxidation (MEO) process wherein the anolyte portionfurther comprises a mediator in aqueous solution for producingreversible redox couples used as oxidizing species and the electrolyteis an acid, neutral or alkaline aqueous solution, wherein the mediatoroxidizing species are selected from the group consisting of(a.) simpleion redox couples described in Table I as below; (b.) Type Iisopolyanions complex anion redox couples formed by incorporation ofelements in Table I, or mixtures thereof as addenda atoms; (c.) Type Iheteropolyanions complex anion redox couples formed by incorporationinto Type I isopolyanions as heteroatoms any element selected from thegroup consisting of the elements listed in Table II either singly or incombination thereof, or (d.) heteropolyanions complex anion redoxcouples containing at least one heteroatom type element contained inboth Table I and Table II below or (e.) combinations of the mediatoroxidizing species from any or all of (a.), (b.), (c.), and (d.) TABLE ISimple Ion Redox Couples SPECIFIC REDOX GROUP SUB GROUP ELEMENT VALENCESPECIES COUPLES I A None B Copper (Cu) +2 Cu⁻² (cupric) +2 Species/+2,+4 Species HCuO₂ (bicuprite) +3 Species/+4 Species CuO₂ ⁻² (cuprite) +3Cu⁺³ CuO₂ ⁻ (cuprate) Cu₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 CuO₂ (peroxide) Silver (Ag)+1 Ag⁺ (argentous) +1 Species/+2, +3 Species; AgO⁻ (argentite) +2Species/+3 Species +2 Ag⁻² (argentic) AgO (argentic oxide) +3 AgO⁺(argentyl) Ag₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Gold (Au) +1 Au⁺ (aurous) +1 Species/+3,+4 Species; +3 Au⁺³ (auric) +3 Species/+4 Species AuO⁻ (auryl) H₃AuO₃ ⁻(auric acid) H₂AuO₃ ⁻ (monoauarate) HAuO₃ ⁻² (diaurate) AuO₃ ⁻³(triaurate) Au₂O₃ (auric oxide) Au(OH)₃ (auric hydroxide) +4 AuO₂(peroxide) II A Magnesium +2 Mg⁺² (magnesic) +2 Species/+4 Species (Mg)+4 MgO₂ (peroxide) Calcium +2 Ca⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species (Ca) +4 CaO₂(peroxide) Strontium +2 Sr⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 SrO₂ (peroxide)Barium (Ba) +2 Ba⁺² +2 Species/+4 Species +4 BaO₂ (peroxide) II B Zinc(Zn) +2 Zn⁺² (zincic) +2 Species/+4 Species ZnOH⁺ (zincyl) HZnO₂ ⁻(bizincate) ZnO₂ ⁺² (zincate) +4 ZnO₂ (peroxide) Mercury +2 Hg⁺²(mercuric) +2 Species/ (Hg) +4 Species Hg(OH)₂ (mercuric hydroxide)HHgO₂ ⁻ (mercurate) +4 HgO₂ (peroxide) III A Boron +3 H₃BO₃ (orthoboricacid) +3 Species/ +4.5, +5 Species H₂BO₃ ⁻; HBO₃ ⁻², BO₃ ⁻³(orthoborates) BO₂ ⁻ (metaborate) H₂B₄O₇ (tetraboric acid) HB₄O₇ ⁻/B₄O₇⁻² (tetraborates) B₂O₄ ⁻² (diborate) B₆O₁₀ ⁻² (hexaborate) +4.5 B₂O₅ ⁻(diborate) +5 BO₃ ⁻/BO₂ ⁻·H₂O (perborate) Thallium +1 Ti⁺¹ (thallous) +1Species/ (Tl) +3 or +3.33 Species; +3 Tl⁺³ (thallic) +3 Species/ +3.33Species TlO⁺, TlOH⁺², Tl(OH)₂ ³⁰ (thallyl) Tl₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Tl(OH)₃(hydroxide) +3.33 Tl₃O₅ (peroxide) B See Rare Earths and Actinides IV ACarbon (C) +4 H₂CO₃ (carbonic acid) +4 Species/ +5, +6 Species HCO₃ ⁻(bicarbonate) CO₃ ⁻² (carbonate) +5 H₂C₂O₆ (perdicarbonic acid) +6 H₂CO₄(permonocarbonic acid) Germanium +4 H₂GeO₃ (germanic acid) +4 Species/(Ge) +6 Species HGeO₃ ⁻ (bigermaniate) GeO₃ ⁻⁴ (germinate) Ge⁺⁴(germanic) GeO₄ ⁻⁴ H₂Ge₂O₅ (digermanic acid) H₂Ge₄O₉ (tetragermanicacid) H₂Ge₅O₁₁ (pentagermanic acid) HGe₅O₁₁ ⁻ (bipentagermanate) +6Ge₅O₁₁ ⁻² (pentagermanate) Tin (Sn) +4 Sn⁺⁴ (stannic) +4 Species/ +7Species HSnO₃ ⁻ (bistannate) SnO₃ ⁻² (stannate) SnO₂ (stannic oxide)Sn(OH)₄ (stannic hydroxide) +7 SnO₄ ⁻ (perstannate) Lead (Pb) +2 Pb⁺²(plumbous) +2, +2.67, +3 Species/+4 Species HPbO₂ ⁻ (biplumbite) PbOH⁺PbO₂ ⁻² (plumbite) PbO (plumbus oxide) +2.67 Pb₃O₄ (plumbo-plumbicoxide) +3 Pb₂O₃ (sequioxide) IV A Lead (Pb) +4 Pb⁺⁴ (plumbic) +2, +2.67,+3 Species/+4 Species PbO₃ ⁻² (metaplumbate) HPbO₃ ⁻ (acid metaplumbate)PbO₄ ⁻⁴ (orthoplumbate) PbO₂ (dioxide) IV B Titanium +4 TiO⁺²(pertitanyl) +4 Species/ +6 Species HTiO₄ ⁻ titanate) TiO₂ (dioxide) +6TiO₂ ⁺² (pertitanyl) HTiO₄ ⁻ (acid pertitanate) TiO₄ ⁻² (pertitanate)TiO₃ (peroxide) Zirconium +4 Zr⁺⁴ (zirconic) +4 Species/+5, (Zr) +6, +7Species ZrO⁺² (zirconyl) HZrO₃ ⁻ (zirconate) +5 Zr₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6ZrO₃ (peroxide) +7 Zr₂O₇ (heptoxide) Hafnium +4 Hf⁺⁴ (hafnic) +4Species/ (Hf) +6 Species HfO⁺² (hafnyl) +6 HfO₃ (peroxide) V A Nitrogen+5 HNO₃ (nitric acid) +5 species/+7 Species NO₃ ⁻ (nitrate) +7 HNO₄(pernitric acid) Phosphorus +5 H₃PO₄ (orthophosphoric acid) +5 Species/(P) +6, +7 species H₂PO₄ ⁻ (monoorthophosphate) HPO₄ ⁻²(diorthophosphate) PO₄ ⁻³ (triorthophosphate) HPO₃ (metaphosphoric acid)H₄P₂O₇ (pryophosphoric acid) H₅P₃O₁₀ (triphosphoric acid) H₆P₄O₁₃(tetraphosphoric acid) V A Phosphorus +6 H₄P₂O₈ (perphosphoric acid) +5Species/ (P) +6, +7 Species +7 H₃PO₃ (monoperphosphoric acid) V AArsenic (As) +5 H₃AsO₄ (ortho-arsenic acid) +5 Species/ +7 speciesH₂AsO₄ ⁻ (mono ortho-arsenate) HAsO₄ ⁻² (di-ortho-arsenate) AsO₄ ⁻³(tri-ortho-arsenate) AsO₂ ⁺ (arsenyl) +7 AsO₃ ⁺ (perarsenyl) Bismuth +3Bi⁺³ (bismuthous) +3 Species/ (Bi) +3.5, +4, +5 Species BiOH⁺²(hydroxybismuthous) BiO⁺ (bismuthyl) BiO₂ ⁻ (metabismuthite) +3.5 Bi₄O₇(oxide) +4 Bi₂O₄ (tetroxide) +5 BiO₃ ⁻ (metabismuthite) Bi₂O₅(pentoxide) B Vanadium +5 VO₂ ⁺ (vanadic) +5 Species/ (V) +7, +9 SpeciesH₃V₂O₇ ⁻ (pyrovanadate) H₂VO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₃ ⁻ (metavanadate)HVO₄ ⁻² (orthovanadate) VO₄ ⁻³ ⁽orthovanadate) V₂O₅ (pentoxide) H₄V₂O₇(pyrovanadic acid) HVO₃ (metavanadic acid) H₄V₆O₁₇ (hexavanadic acid) +7VO₄ ⁻ (pervanadate) +9 VO₅ ⁻ (hypervanadate) V B Niobium +5 NbO₃ ⁻(metaniobate) +5 Species/+7 (Nb) species NbO₄ ⁻³ (orthoniobate) Nb₂O₃(pentoxide) HNbO₃ (niobid acid) +7 NbO₄ ⁻ (perniobate) Nb₂O₇ (perniobicoxide) HNbO₄ (perniobic acid) Tantalum +5 TaO₃ ⁻ (metatantalate) +5species/+7 (Ta) species TaO₄ ⁻³ (orthotanatalate) Ta₂O₅ (pentoxide)HTaO₃ (tantalic acid) +7 TaO₄ ⁻ (pentantalate) Ta₂O₇ (pertantalate)HTaO₄•H₂O (pertantalic acid) VI A Sulfur (S) +6 H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid) +6Species/+7, +8 Species HSO₄ (bistilfate) SO₄ ⁻² (sulfate) +7 S₂O₈ ⁻²(dipersulfate) +8 H₂SO₅ (momopersulfuric acid) Selenium +6 H₂Se₂O₄(selenic acid) +6 species/+7 (Se) Species HSeO₄ ⁻ (biselenate) SeO₄ ⁻²(selenate) +7 H₂Se₂O₈ (perdiselenic acid) Tellurium +6 H₂TeO₄ (telluricacid) +6 species/+7 (Te) species HTeO₄ ⁻ (bitellurate) TeO₄ ⁻²(tellurate) +7 H₂Te₂O₈ (perditellenic acid) Polonium +2 Po⁺² (polorious)+2, +4 species/ (Po) +6 Species +4 PoO₃ ⁻² (polonate) +6 PoO₃ (peroxide)VI B Chromium +3 Cr⁺³ (chromic) +3 Species/ +4, +5 Species; CrOH⁺²,Cr(OH)₂ ⁺(chromyls) +4 Species/ +6 Species CrO₂ ⁻, CrO₃ ⁻³ (chromites)Cr₂O₃ (chromic oxide) Cr(OH)₃ (chromic hydroxide) +4 CrO₂ (dioxide)Cr(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 H₂CrO₄ (chromic acid) HCrO₄ ⁻ (acid chromate)CrO₄ ⁻² (chromate) Cr₂O₇ ⁻² (dichromate) Molybdenum +6 HMoO₄ ⁻(bimolybhate) +6 Species/ (Mo) +7 Species MoO₄ ⁻² (molydbate) MoO₃(molybdic trioxide) H₂MoO₄ (molybolic acid) +7 MoO₄ ⁻ (permolybdate)Tungsten +6 WO₄ ⁻² tungstic) +6 Species/ (W) +8 Species WO₃ (trioxide)H₂WO₄ (tungstic acid) +8 WO₅ ⁻² (pertungstic) H₂WO₅ (pertungstic acid)VII A Chlorine (Cl) −1 Cl⁻ (chloride) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7 Species+1 HClO (hypochlorous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; ClO⁻(hypochlorite) +3 Species/ +5, +7 Species; +3 HClO₂ (chlorous acid) +5Species/ +7 Species ClO₂ ⁻ (chlorite) +5 HClO₃ (chloric acid) ClO₃ ⁻(chlorate) +7 HClO₄ (perchloric acid) ClO₄ ⁻, HClO₅ ⁻², ClO₅ ⁻³, Cl₂O₉⁻⁴ (perchlorates) VII A Bromine (Br) −1 Br⁻ (bromide) −1 Species/+1, +3,+5, +7 Species; +1 HBrO (hypobromous acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7Species; BrO⁻ (hypobromitee) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species +3 HBrO₂ (bromousacid) +5 Species/+7 Species BrO₂ ⁻ (bromite) +5 HBrO₃ (bromic acid) BrO₃⁻ (bromate) +7 HBrO₄ (perbromic acid) BrO₄ ⁻, HBrO₅ ⁻², BrO₅ ⁻³, Br₂O₉⁻⁴ (prebromates) Iodine −1 I⁻ (iodide) −1 Species/+1, +3, +5, +7Species; +1 HIO (hypoiodus acid) +1 Species/+3, +5, +7 Species; IO⁻(hypoiodite) +3 Species/+5, +7 Species; +3 HIO₂ (iodous acid) +5Species/+7 Species IO₂ ⁻ (iodite) +5 HIO₃ (iodic acid) IO₃ ⁻ (iodate) +7HIO₄ (periodic acid) IO₄ ⁻, HIO₅ ⁻², IO₅ ⁻³, I₂O₉ ⁻⁴ (periodates) BManganese +2 Mn⁺² (manganeuous) +2 Species/+3, (Mn) +4, +6, +7 Species;HMnO₂ ⁻ (dimanganite) +3 Species/+4, +6, +7 Species; +3 Mn⁺³ (manganic)+4 Species/+6, +7 Species; +4 MnO₂ (dioxide) +6 Species/+7 Species +6MnO₄ ⁻² (manganate) +7 MnO₄ ⁻ (permanganate) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe) +2Fe⁺² (ferrous) +2 Species/+3, HFeO₂ (dihypoferrite) +4, +5, +6 Species;+3 Fe⁺³ (ferric) +3 Species/+4, Fe(OH)⁺² +5, +6 Species; Fe(OH)₂ ⁺ FeO₂⁻² (ferrite) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe) +4 FeO⁺² (ferryl) +4 Species/ +5,+6 Species; FeO₂ ⁻² (perferrite) +5 Species/ +6 Species +5 FeO₂ ⁺(perferryl) +6 FeO₄ ⁻² (ferrate) Cobalt (Co) +2 Co⁺² (cobalous) +2Species/ +3, +4 Species; HCoO₂ ⁻ (dicobaltite) +3 Species +4 Species +3Co⁺³ (cobaltic) Co₂O₃ (cobaltic oxide) +4 CoO₂ (peroxide) H₂CoO₃(cobaltic acid) Nickel (Ni) +2 Ni⁺² (nickelous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6Species; NiOH⁺ +3 Species/ +4, +6 Species; HNiO₂ ⁻ (dinickelite) +4Species/ +6 Species NiO₂ ⁻² (nickelite) +3 Ni⁺³ (nickelic) Ni₂O₃(nickelic oxide) +4 NiO₂ (peroxide) +6 NiO₄ ⁻² (nickelate) VIII Period 5Ruthenium +2 Ru⁺² +2 Species/+3, (Ru) +4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species; +3Ru⁺³ +3 Species/+4, +5, +6, +7, +8 Species; Ru₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4Species/ +5, +6, +7, +8 Species; Ru(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +5 Species/+6, +7,+8 Species; +4 Ru⁺⁴ (ruthenic) +6 Species/ +7, +8 Species; RuO₂(ruthenic dioxide) +7 Species/ +8 Species Ru(OH)₄ (ruthenic hydroxide)+5 Ru₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 RUO₄ ⁻² (ruthenate) RuO₂ ⁻² (ruthenyl) RuO₃(trioxide) +7 RuO₄ ⁻ (perruthenate) +8 H₂RuO₄ (hyperuthenic acid) HRuO₅(diperruthenate) RuO₄ (ruthenium tetroxide) Rhodium +1 Rh⁺ (hyporhodous)+1 Species/+2, (Rh) +3, +4, 6 Species; +2 Rh⁺² (rhodous) +2 Species/+3,+4, +6 Species; +3 Rh⁺³ (rhodic) +3 Species/+4, +6 Species: Rh₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 Species/+6 Species +4 RhO₂ (rhodic oxide) Rh(OH)₄(hydroxide) +6 RhO₄ ⁻² (rhodate) RhO₃ (trioxide) Palladium +2 Pd⁺²(palladous) +2 Species/+3, +4, +6 Species; PdO₂ ⁻² (palladite) +3Species/ +4, +6 Species; +3 Pd₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/ +6 Species+4 Pd O₃ ⁻² (palladate) PdO₂ (dioxide) Pd(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +6 PdO₃(peroxide) VIII Period 6 Iridium (Ir) +3 Ir⁺³ (iridic) +3 Species/ +4,+6 Species; Ir₂O₃ (iridium sesquioxide) Ir(OH)₃ (iridium hydroxide) +4IrO₂ (iridic oxide) Ir (OH)₄ (iridic hydroxide) +6 IrO₄ ⁻² (iridate)IrO₃ (iridium peroxide) Platinum +2 Pt⁺² (platinous) +2, +3 Species/(Pt) +4, +6 Species; +3 Pt₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 Species/ +6 Species +4PtO₃ ⁻² (palatinate) Pt(OH)⁺³ PtO₂ (platonic oxide) IIIB Rare Cerium(Ce) +3 Ce⁺³ (cerous) +3 Species/ earths +4, +6 Species; Ce₂O₃ (cerousoxide) +4 Species/ +6 Species Ce(OH)₃ (cerous hydroxide) +4 Ce⁺⁴,Ce(OH)⁺³, Ce(OH)₂ ⁺², Ce(OH)₃ ⁺ (ceric) CeO₂ (ceric oxide) +6 CeO₃(peroxide) Praseodymium +3 Pr⁺³ (praseodymous) +3 species/+4 (Pr)species Pr₂O₃ (sesquioxide) Pr(OH)₃ (hydroxide) +4 Pr⁺⁴ (praseodymic)PrO₂ (dioxide) Neodymium +3 Nd⁺³ +3 Species/+4 Species Nd₂O₃(sesquioxide) +4 NdO₂ (peroxide) Terbium (Tb) +3 Tb⁺³ +3 Species/+4Species Tb₂O₃ (sesquioxide) +4 TbO₂ (peroxide) IIIB Actinides Thorium(Th) +4 Th⁺⁴ (thoric) +4 Species/+6 Species ThO⁺² (thoryl) HThO₃ ⁻(thorate) +6 ThO₃ (acid peroxide) Uranium (U) +6 UO₂ ⁺² (uranyl) +6Species/+8 Species UO₃ (uranic oxide) +8 HUO₅ ⁻, UO₅ ⁻² (peruranates)UO₄ (peroxide) Neptunium +5 NpO₂ ⁺ (hyponeptunyl) +5 Species/+6, (Np) +8Species; Np₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 Species/+8 Species +6 NpO₂ ⁺² (neptunyl)NpO₃ (trioxide) +8 NpO₄ (peroxide) Plutonium +3 Pu⁺³ (hypoplutonous) +3Species/+4, (Pu) +5, +6 Species; +4 Pu⁺⁴ (plutonous) +4 Species/+5, +6Species; PuO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6 Species +5 PuO₂ ⁺ (hypoplutonyl)Pu₂O₅ (pentoxide) +6 PuO₂ ⁺² (plutonyl) PuO₃ (peroxide) Americium +3Am⁺³ (hypoamericious) +3 Species/+4, (Am) +5, +6 Species; +4 Am⁺⁴(americous) +4 Species/+5, +6 Species; AmO₂ (dioxide) +5 Species/+6Species Am(OH)₄ (hydroxide) +5 AmO₂ ⁺(hypoamericyl) Am₂O₃ (pentoxide) +6AmO₂ ⁺² (americyl) AmO₃ (peroxide)

TABLE II Elements Participating as Heteroatoms in HeteropolyanionComplex Anion Redox Couple Mediators SUB- GROUP GROUP ELEMENT I ALithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), and Cesium (Cs) B Copper (Cu),Silver (Ag), and Gold (Au) II A Beryllium (Be), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium(Ca), Strontium (Sr), and Barium (Ba) B Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd), andMercury (Hg) III A Boron (B), and Aluminum (Al) B Scandium (Sc), andYttrium (Y) - (See Rare Earths) IV A Carbon (C), Silicon (Si), Germanium(Ge), Tin (Sn) and Lead (Pb) B Titanium (Ti), Zirconium (Zr), andHafnium (Hf) V A Nitrogen (N), Phosphorous (P), Arsenic (As), Antimony(Sb), and Bismuth (Bi) B Vanadium (V), Niobium (Nb), and Tantalum (Ta)VI A Sulfur (S), Selenium (Se), and Tellurium (Te) B Chromium (Cr),Molybdenum (Mo), and Tungsten (W) VII A Fluorine (F), Chlorine (Cl),Bromine (Br), and Iodine (I) B Manganese (Mn), Technetium (Tc), andRhenium (Re) VIII Period 4 Iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), and Nickel (Ni)Period 5 Ruthenium (Ru), Rhodium (Rh), and Palladium (Pd) Period 6Osmium (Os), Iridium (Ir), and Platinum (Pt) IIIB Rare Earths All

further comprising additives disposed in the electrolyte forcontributing to kinetics of the mediated electrochemical processes whilekeeping it from becoming directly involved in the oxidizing of theinfectious waste materials, and stabilizer compounds disposed in theelectrolyte for stabilizing higher oxidation state species of oxidizedforms of the reversible redox couples used as the oxidizing species inthe electrolyte, wherein the stabilizing compounds are tellurate orperiodate ions.
 65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein an aqueousanolyte electrolyte solution comprises an alkaline solution for aidingdecomposing the infectious waste materials, for absorbing CO₂, forforming alkali metal bicarbonate/carbonate for circulating through theelectrochemical cell, and for producing a percarbonate oxidizer.
 66. Theapparatus of claim 64, further comprising an AC source for impression ofan AC voltage upon a DC voltage to retard the formation of cellperformance limiting surface films on the electrodes.
 67. The apparatusof claim 64, wherein the power supply energizes an electrochemical cellat a potential level sufficient to form an oxidized form of a redoxcouple having the highest oxidation potential in an aqueous anolyteelectrolyte solution, and further comprising a heat exchanger connectedto an anolyte reaction chamber for controlling temperature between 0° C.and slightly below the boiling temperature of an aqueous anolyteelectrolyte solution before the aqueous anolyte electrolyte solutionenters the electrochemical cell enhancing the generation of oxidizedforms of the ion redox couple mediator, and adjusting the temperature ofan aqueous anolyte electrolyte solution to the range between 0° C. andslightly below the boiling temperature when entering the anolytereaction chamber.
 68. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the oxidizingspecies are one or more Type I isopolyanion complex anion redox couplemediators containing tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium, niobium, tantalum,or combinations thereof as addenda atoms in aqueous solution.
 69. Theapparatus of claim 64, further comprising an off-gas cleaning system,comprising scrubber/absorption columns connected to a vent, a condenserconnected to an anolyte reaction chamber, whereby non-condensableincomplete oxidation products, low molecular weight organics and carbonmonoxide are reduced to acceptable levels for atmospheric release by agas cleaning system, and wherein an anolyte off-gas is contacted in anoff-gas cleaning system wherein the noncondensibles from the condenserare introduced into the lower portion of the off-gas cleaning systemthrough a flow distribution system and a small side stream of freshlyoxidized aqueous anolyte electrolyte solution direct from anelectrochemical cell is introduced into the upper portion of the column,resulting in a gas phase continuously reacting with the oxidizingmediator species as it rises up the column past the downflowing aqueousanolyte electrolyte solution, and external drain, for draining to anorganic compound removal system and an inorganic compounds removal andtreatment system, and for draining the anolyte system, wherein anorganic compounds recovery system is used to recover biologicalmaterials that are benign and do not need further treatment andbiological materials that will be used in the form they have beenreduced.
 70. The apparatus of claim 64, further comprising a thermalcontrol unit connected to heat or cool an aqueous anolyte electrolytesolution to a selected temperature range when the aqueous anolyteelectrolyte solution is circulated into an anolyte reaction chamberthrough the electrochemical cell by pump on the anode chamber side ofthe membrane, a flush for flushing an aqueous anolyte electrolytesolution, and a filter located at the base of the anolyte reactionchamber to limit the size of exiting solid particles to approximately 1mm in diameter, further comprising a thermal control unit connected toheat or cool an aqueous catholyte electrolyte solution to a selectedtemperature range when the aqueous catholyte electrolyte solution iscirculated into a catholyte reservoir through the electrochemical cellby pump on the cathode chamber side of the membrane.
 71. The apparatusof claim 64, further comprising an aqueous anolyte electrolyte solutionand an independent aqueous catholyte electrolyte solution containmentboundary composed of materials resistant to the electrolyte selectedfrom a group consisting of stainless steel, PTFE, PTFE lined tubing,glass and ceramics, or combinations thereof.
 72. The apparatus of claim64, further comprising an off-gas cleaning system connected to acatholyte reservoir for cleaning gases before release into theatmosphere and an atmospheric vent connected to the off-gas cleaningsystem for releasing gases into the atmosphere, wherein cleaned gas fromthe off-gas cleaning system is combined with unreacted components of theair introduced into The system and discharged through the atmosphericvent.
 73. The apparatus of claim 64, further comprising a screwed top ona catholyte reservoir to facilitate flushing out the catholytereservoir, a mixer connected to the catholyte reservoir for stirring anaqueous catholyte electrolyte solution, a catholyte pump connected tothe catholyte reservoir for circulating an aqueous catholyte electrolytesolution back to the electrochemical cell, a drain for draining anaqueous catholyte electrolyte solution, a flush for flushing thecatholyte system, and an air sparge connected to the housing forintroducing air into the catholyte reservoir, wherein an aqueouscatholyte electrolyte solution is circulated by pump through anelectrochemical cell on the cathode side of the membrane, and whereincontact of oxidizing gas with an aqueous catholyte electrolyte solutionis enhanced by promoting gas/liquid contact by mechanical and/orultrasonic mixing.
 74. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein anelectrochemical cell is operated at high membrane current densitiesabove about 0.5 amps/cm² for increasing a rate of waste destruction,also results in increased mediator ion transport through a membrane intoan aqueous catholyte electrolyte solution, and further comprising ananolyte recovery system positioned on the catholyte side, air spargingon the catholyte side to dilute and remove off-gas and hydrogen, whereinsome mediator oxidizer ions cross the membrane and are removed throughthe anolyte recovery system to maintain process efficiency or celloperability.